Which virus is responsible for erythema infectiosum (fifth disease)?

Which virus is responsible for erythema infectiosum (fifth disease)?

• A. Adenovirus
• B. Parvovirus B19
• C. Coxsackievirus
• D. Rhinovirus

Answer: (B)

The agent behind erythema infectiosum is Parvovirus B19, a small nonenveloped single-stranded DNA virus. It specifically infects erythroid precursor cells in the bone marrow by binding to the P antigen (globoside) on their surface. In children, this causes the characteristic “slapped-cheek” facial rash followed by a reticular body rash on the trunk and limbs, giving the disease its name and pattern. Parvovirus B19 infection can also cause a transient aplastic crisis in people with hemolytic disorders because erythropoiesis is temporarily suppressed, and in pregnant women it can lead to fetal anemia and hydrops fetalis. The other viruses listed cause different illnesses (adenovirus with respiratory/conjunctival infections, Coxsackievirus with hand-foot-mouth disease, rhinovirus with the common cold), not erythema infectiosum.

The agent behind erythema infectiosum is Parvovirus B19, a small nonenveloped single-stranded DNA virus. It specifically infects erythroid precursor cells in the bone marrow by binding to the P antigen (globoside) on their surface. In children, this causes the characteristic “slapped-cheek” facial rash followed by a reticular body rash on the trunk and limbs, giving the disease its name and pattern. Parvovirus B19 infection can also cause a transient aplastic crisis in people with hemolytic disorders because erythropoiesis is temporarily suppressed, and in pregnant women it can lead to fetal anemia and hydrops fetalis. The other viruses listed cause different illnesses (adenovirus with respiratory/conjunctival infections, Coxsackievirus with hand-foot-mouth disease, rhinovirus with the common cold), not erythema infectiosum.