Simultaneous presentation of parvovirus b19 infection and systemic lupus erythematosus in a patient: Description and review of the literature

Abstract

We present the case of a 25-year-old woman without medical history, presenting with acute respiratory failure needing mechanical ventilation. Aetiologic screening showed PVB19 primary infection and concomitant SLE flare-up. We discuss the causative interactions between PVB19 and SLE in the pathogenesis of the disease. Difficulty diagnosing inaugural SLE flare-up concomitant with PVB19 infection can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Inversely, overtreating a SLE-mimicking PVB19 infection with immunosuppressive agents can be highly detrimental. LEARNING POINTS • The differential diagnosis between parvovirus B19 primary infection and systemic lupus erythematosus flare-up can be difficult. • Parvovirus B19 primary infection can elicit authentic severe systemic lupus erythematosus flare-up that requires urgent immunosuppressive therapy. • Parvovirus B19 primary infection can also mimic systemic lupus erythematosus.