Parvovirus B19 in pregnancy.

Abstract

Parvovirus B19 is a common, self-limiting, usually benign childhood virus that causes erythema infectiosum, also known as fifth disease. Acute infection in pregnancy can cause B19 infection in the fetus, leading to nonimmune fetal hydrops or fetal loss, depending on gestational age at the time of infection. Susceptibility to parvovirus B19 infection should be determined in selected pregnant women at high risk for exposure, and counseling should be provided regarding prevention, testing, and treatment options if exposed.