Parvovirus B19 DNA, Qualitative, Real-Time PCR
- Laboratory
- Quest Diagnostics
- Test code
- 34296
- Specimen
- Serum
- Fasting
- Not stated
- LOINC
- 31208-2, 9571-1
- Turnaround
- Set up: Daily
Laboratory assay overview
Parvovirus B19 is the cause of an infection known as "Fifth Disease". This infection affects children primarily and causes a rash on the face, trunk, and limbs. Joint pain and swelling is more common in adults. Although a portion of those affected have only mild disease, patients with sickle cell anemia, or similar types of chronic anemia, can suffer from severe acute anemia. Infection during pregnancy can lead to severe complications for the fetus. Infections in immunocompromised patients may lead to serious complications including nephropathy, myocarditis, and persistent anemia. Although serologic detection of circulating antibodies (Parvovirus B-19 IgM & IgG) is useful to determine recent exposure to the virus, DNA testing provides the most reliable evidence of a persistent infection. Quantitative results of Parvovirus B19 viral load may be useful in determining the response to therapy (usually IVIG) and may be beneficial in assessing the risk for nosocomial transmission.
View complete laboratory reference notes
Not detected
Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 34296