Parvovirus B19 test results determine if you are having an increased risk of complications or if the fetus has contracted the infection from an infected mother or who has been exposed to extreme temperatures.1
Fever is a typical symptom of human parvovirus, antipyretics like Acetaminophen or ibuprofen is effective in treating infection in these patients.2
When there are no complications with the infection, you may try self-care treatment at home to improve the plasma count to manage severe anemia.3,4
What Do My Parvovirus B19 Test Results Mean?
Parvovirus B19 is the infectious agent also called “fifth disease” or “erythema infectiosum.” Parvovirus B19-specific IgG antibody test is used to assess the presence of and immunity from parvovirus B19. When an individual gets infected with human parvovirus due to exposure to high temperatures, they will have detectable levels of immunoglobin antibodies in their body lasting from several weeks to several months.
If both parvovirus B19 IgG and IgM are present, the result concludes that the infected individual has contracted infection either at present or recently in the past. IgG levels will be tested again after 2 or 3 weeks. When there is a high level of IgG, it shows the antibody levels are increasing.
However, when the antibody test turns out to be negative, then the person tested for the infection is not immune and contains no infection.
What Is The Best Medicine For Parvovirus B19?
Most cases of parvovirus B19 is caused by an unnoticed childhood infection. People who have an increased risk of developing this infection can benefit from blood tests to check their immunity level against the infection. For uncomplicated complications, home remedies have been known to produce beneficial results.
A healthy diet with lifestyle changes can help boost their immune system. However, in patients with severe anemic complications, your healthcare provider may suggest staying in the hospital for blood transfusions.
Similarly, patients with a weakened immune system will be infused with antibodies (a protective protein to fight off infections and prevent infections from spreading) through Intravenous immune globulin (“IVIG”). They are given intravenously through a vein when your body cannot make antibodies on its own. The infused antibodies last for a long time and often helpful in the treatment of parvovirus B19.2
Self-care treatment is primarily aimed at easing the symptoms and relieving the pain and discomfort. When your child is exposed to infection, as a parent you should ensure that your child is intaking plenty of liquids and fluids to flush out of the infection and stay hydrated. Getting plenty of rest is equally important to control infections.
Fever is a classic symptom of human parvovirus, which dissipates in 2-3 days. However, when fever is more than 102 F antipyretics like Acetaminophen or ibuprofen is used to relieve minor aches and pain.3,4
Parvovirus B19 is the causative agent of a common childhood illness called fifth disease. It is a viral infection that produces a rash lasting for 4-14 days since the onset of viral infection. In some instances, it can last up to 21 days.
Fever, muscle pain, headache are some of the common symptoms of parvovirus B-13. Some of the uncommon symptoms include itchiness, cough, diarrhea, and vomiting. The rashes are recurrent that appear and disappear after exposure to sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Nevertheless, after the appearance of rashes, the child is no longer contagious.
- Bodewes, Rogier, et al. “Oral Fluid: Non-Invasive Alternative for Parvovirus B19 Diagnosis?” Journal of Clinical Virology, Elsevier, 19 May 2019, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1386653219301179.
- “Parvovirus B19 Antibodies, IgG, and IgM: ARUP Lab Test Directory.” Parvovirus B19 Antibodies, IgG, and IgM | ARUP Lab Test Directory, ltd.aruplab.com/Tests/Pub/0065120.
- David J Cennimo, MD. Parvovirus B19 Infection Treatment & Management: Medical Care, Consultations, Diet, Medscape, 23 Mar. 2020, emedicine.medscape.com/article/961063-treatment.
- “Parvovirus Infection.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 15 Apr. 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/parvovirus-infection/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20376090.
Also Read:
- Fifth’s Disease or Slapped Cheek Disease or Parvovirus Infection: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment
- Parvovirus Infection in Humans: Incubation, Transmission, Symptoms, Treatment
- Can Parvovirus B19 Be Chronic & Is Parvovirus A DNA Virus?
- What Diseases Does Parvovirus B19 Cause & How Long Can Parvovirus Last In Humans?
- Can Parvovirus B19 Infection Cause Lupus & Does It Cause Joint Pain?
- Can Parvovirus B19 Infection Cause Rheumatoid Arthritis & Is It An Autoimmune Disease?
- What Does A Positive Parvovirus B19 IgG Mean & How Long Does Parvovirus IgM Stay Positive?
