ABSTRACT
The association between fetal parvovirus B19 infection and hydrops was first reported
in 1984. The virus has a predilection for the erythroid cell line, which in the fetus
may produce anemia. Recent cases of parvovirus infection in other fetal cell lines
have raised concern that the infection may induce fetal anomalies in rare cases. We
report two pregnancies complicated by parvovirus B19 infection. In each instance the
patient had normal second trimester ultrasounds but subsequently developed fetal abnormalities-disruptions
of normal structure. One infant had myocardial infarction, splenic calcifications,
and mild hydrocephalus. The other had moderate hydrocephalus with central nervous
system scarring. There are two possible mechanisms in which parvovirus may induce
fetal anomalies. Both direct infection of fetal organs and vascular inflammation have
been documented in association with B19 parvovirus. Although fetal abnormalities associated
with parvovirus are rare, continued study of this organism may indicate a greater
pathologic potential than is now thought.
Keywords
Parvovirus B19 - fetal anomalies - fetal cell lines - anemia
