A pilot study on parvovirus B19 infection in paediatric haematological malignancies
2011

Parvovirus B19 Infection in Children with Blood Cancers

Sample size: 35 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Kishore Janak Sen, Manodeep Kumar, Ashutosh Kumar, Archana

Primary Institution: Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India

Hypothesis

What is the frequency and impact of parvovirus B19 infection in children with newly diagnosed haematological malignancies?

Conclusion

Parvovirus B19 infection is common in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and can lead to unexplained anaemia and delays in chemotherapy.

Supporting Evidence

  • 17.1% of children with haematological malignancies were found to be infected with B19.
  • B19 infected children required more blood transfusions compared to uninfected children.
  • 60% of B19 infected children experienced delays in induction chemotherapy.

Takeaway

Some kids with blood cancers can get sick from a virus called parvovirus B19, which can make them feel worse and delay their treatment.

Methodology

The study involved 35 children with haematological malignancies and 34 controls, testing for B19 infection using serological and molecular methods.

Limitations

The study had a small sample size and some children were lost to follow-up.

Participant Demographics

35 children aged under 12 years, predominantly male (29 males, 6 females).

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.02

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

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