Parvovirus B19 in Pregnancy—Do We Screen for Fifth Disease or Not?
2024

Parvovirus B19 in Pregnancy: Screening Considerations

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Malutan Andrei Mihai, Ormindean Cristina Mihaela, Diculescu Doru, Ciortea Razvan, Nicula Renata, Pop Daria, Bucuri Carmen, Maria Roman, Nati Ionel, Mihu Dan

Primary Institution: Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy

Hypothesis

Is there a need for routine screening for parvovirus B19 infection in pregnant women?

Conclusion

Routine screening for parvovirus B19 infection can improve perinatal outcomes in communities where the infection is common.

Supporting Evidence

  • Parvovirus B19 infection can lead to serious complications like fetal anemia and hydrops.
  • Vertical transmission occurs in 33% to 51% of maternal cases.
  • Routine screening may be beneficial in high-risk communities.

Takeaway

Parvovirus B19 can affect pregnant women and their babies, but most cases are mild. Screening might help identify those at risk.

Methodology

A narrative review of literature from the last 10 years focusing on parvovirus B19 infection in pregnancy.

Limitations

Lack of comprehensive studies on the prevalence of parvovirus B19 infection in Romania.

Participant Demographics

Pregnant women, particularly those with occupational exposure to children.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/life14121667

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication