DOI: 10.12890/2026_006616
Acute parvovirus B19 infection associated with multi-organ involvement in an immunocompetent adult
Authors
akshaye.gopaul3@nhs.net
Keywords
Parvovirus B19, acute kidney injury, acute infection, cytokine-driven inflammation, endothelial dysfunctionAbstract
Introduction: Human parvovirus B19 is a highly prevalent single-stranded deoxyribonucleic acid virus that infects a large proportion of the global population. It can involve multiple organ systems, leading to a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations. While most infections in immunocompetent individuals are mild and self-limiting, parvovirus B19 can occasionally cause severe and diverse complications.
Case description: We present a case of a 44-year-old, immunocompetent woman, who presented acutely with a severe acute inflammatory response associated with hepatomegaly, oedema, and cardiac and renal involvement. Early suspicion of atypical infections including parvovirus B19 was considered given the multi-organ involvement and non-specific aetiology. Parvovirus B19 infection was confirmed alongside the development of the typical rash seen in acute infection and the patient improved with supportive therapy with full resolution.
Conclusion: This case underscores the potential severity of parvovirus B19 infection. Early testing and a high index of suspicion is required to accurately diagnoses these patients and may improve clinical outcomes whilst the mainstay of management is supportive. A potential underlying pathophysiology is suggested in acute parvovirus B19 infection with multi-organ involvement highlighting the link between infection and cytokine-driven inflammation and endothelial dysfunction.
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