The only single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) virus!

Pathophysiology

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• Parvovirus B19 binds to the P antigen (globoside) on erythroid progenitor cells → cellular invasion → viral DNA enters the nucleus of erythroid cells → viral DNA replication → cytotoxicity → clinical manifestations + transient cessation of erythropoiesis

Clinical features

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• Mild respiratory symptoms
• Rash
  • Erythema infectiosum (fifth disease)
• Parvovirus B19-associated arthritis
• Severe anemia or transient aplastic crisis
• Hydrops fetalis
  • Parvovirus B19 is a TORCH infection that can cause fetal death and miscarriage.