One available test involves using a DNA probe to identify the virus. This means that this test needs to be done during the acute phase as basically one is looking for virus particles in the blood.

IgM, IgG and DNA testing for parvovirus are available in Auckland. Thus active parvovirus infection can be identified locally by the IgM/IgG (just need 1-2ml plain serum) and parvovirus viraemia can also be identified if this is an issue, also (2ml plain serum). In many instances the viraemia will have cleared by the time the rash is apparent, so serology is a useful option for the acute (as well as the not quite so acute) diagnosis.

In regard to fetal hydrops, there is little data on finding parvovirus in the amniotic fluid when the fetus is infected, but it would seem reasonable to assume it would be there. We could certainly assay for parvovirus DNA in amniotic fluid. The same goes for any/all tissues, including placenta – direct assay for parvovirus DNA would be the most useful thing to do. A small quantity of tissue (not in formalin) in a sterile disposable plastic container, put on ice and sent to the Virology Laboratory.

If parvovirus is suspected in a fetus or young infant, examination of mother’s serology may be helpful diagnostically.