Description
Parvovirus B19 can cause the childhood infection slapped cheek (or fifth disease), as well as more serious aplastic crisis, persistent anaemia, myocarditis, hepatitis and, rarely, encephalitis. Infection in pregnancy can result in hydrops fetalis. Serological screening by EIA is used to detect IgG and IgM; a positive IgG result is indicative of immunity to infection whereas a positive IgM result suggests current or recent infection. Both IgG and IgM testing is carried out using manual EIA assays. The detection of Parvovirus B19 DNA by PCR is also useful in the diagnosis of infection with this virus.
Also known as
Slapped cheek, fifth disease, erythema infectiosum, hydrops fetalis
Request a test
To request this test please send sample with a request providing patient ID (three identifiers), specimen information, assay required, relevant clinical details and sender information. Before sending sample please read details on requesting and labelling by clicking on the link. Please also refer to any additional information provided for this test.
Additional information
Not applicable
Sending address
Microbiology, Virology and Infection Control
Level 4, Camelia Botnar Laboratories
Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children
Great Ormond Street
London
WC1N 3JH
DX number: DX6640203
DX Exchange: Bloomsbury 91WC
Laboratory service
Microbiology, Virology and Infection Control
Sample requirements
Serum (2ml in clotted blood tube)
Reference range
Not applicable
Turnaround time
7 days
Disease / group
Viral infection, viral immunity
Cost
Upon request
Call in advance?
Not required