How Is Parvovirus Diagnosed?

Some people may ask, "How is parvovirus diagnosed?" Parvovirus is diagnosed beginning with a review of the patient's symptoms and history of medical conditions. These are usually followed by a physical exam. A doctor may be able to diagnose fifth disease (a condition caused by parvovirus B19) by seeing the rash it often causes. In cases in which it is important to confirm the diagnosis, a blood test may be done to look for antibodies to parvovirus.

Human Parvovirus

How Is Parvovirus Diagnosed?

There are a number of conditions that parvovirus B19 can cause (see Parvovirus B19). The doctor may suspect a parvovirus infection based on a person's symptoms, history of medical conditions, or other findings during a physical exam. For example, a doctor can often diagnose fifth disease (which is caused by parvovirus B19) by seeing the typical rash during a physical examination (see Fifth Disease Pictures). Other conditions that are caused by a parvovirus infection may be more difficult to diagnose, so other tests may be recommended.

Labs Tests to Diagnose Parvovirus

In cases in which it is important to confirm the diagnosis, a blood test may be done to look for antibodies to parvovirus. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to parvovirus B19 and other germs. If the immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibody to parvovirus B19 is detected, the test result suggests that the person has had a recent infection.