Human Parvovirus B19 Infection

Autoimmune Disease Trigger

Apr 1, 2007 Elaine Moore

Human Parvovirus B19 has been linked to a number of different autoimmune diseases, including vasculitis and connective tissue disorders.

Human Parvovirus B19, a species of parvovirus that infects humans, is associated with the development of several different autoimmune diseases including dematomyositis, mixed connective tissue diseases, a lupus-like illness, a serologically negative (negative RA factor test) form of arthritis, granuloma annulare, autoimmune thyroid disease, autoimmune schizophrenia, and various forms of vasculitis, including Henoch Schonlein purpura, Kawasaki disease, Wegener’s granulomatosis, and polyarteritis nodosa. The development of autoimmune conditions following Human Parvovirus B19 occurs in people of all ages and occurs more frequently in females. Autoimmune disease development is also known to occur in adults exposed to children with fifth disease.

Human Parvovirus B19 Disease

Human Parvovirus B19 was first identified in 1975. Since its identification, this viral agent has been recognized as the cause of “fifth disease” in children and adults. Infection with Human Parvovirus B19 is characterized by a petechial (causing small bruise-like eruptions) rash similar to the skin lesions seen in Sweet’s syndrome or erythema multiforme. This rash occurs in a “glove and stocking” distribution in the pattern of a lace-like or reticular rash covering the trunk; another finding is a characteristic reddening of the cheeks referred to as a “slapped cheek” sign. Other symptoms of infection include a systemic lupus-like syndrome of arthritis, edema, mucosal ulcers of the mouth and/or genital tract, uveitis, fever, joint pain, muscle weakness, and purpura or bruising of the lower extremities.

Human Parvovirus B19 infection is diagnosed by serological tests for Human Parvovirus B19 antibodies. In addition, the lesions in Human Parvovirus B19 infection show evidence of the parvovirus B19 genome and can be used to diagnose infection. Skin biopsies of infection patients also show an infiltration of white blood cells, fragmented collagen, and vascular changes. Besides the links to autoimmune disease, Human Parvovirus 19 infection is thought to be responsible for fetal loss in pregnancy and for aplastic anemia in patients with compromised immune systems, including patients on immunosuppressant medications.

In chronic infection, Human Parvovirus B19 can infect the brain. Because of its ability to induce autoimmunity, this virus is suspected of triggering co-morbid bipolar and autoimmune thyroid disorders in females and schizophrenia and autoimmune thyroid disorders in males.

The Autoimmune Connection

The skin manifestations in Parvovirus B19 suggest a type of tissue injury that is mediated by a delayed-type hypersensitivity in which antibodies to Parvovirus B19 go on to target persistent Parvovirus antigens in the skin tissue, causing immune complex formation. The immune response in Parvovirus infection also causes the induction of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), a cytokine involved in the development of ANCA positive vasculitis syndromes. Researchers at Ohio State University have also found a series of patients with interstitital lung disease, including pulmonary fibrosis, autoimmunedisease.suite101.com/article.cfm/pulmonary_fibrosis with evidence of chronic Parvovirus B19 infection based on the presence of parvovirus antibodies and the isolation of Parvovirus B19 DNA in lung tissue samples.

One major theory of autoimmune disease development involves the presence of superantigens, which include various protein particles that are capable of reacting with multiple cell receptors. Through a process of molecular mimicry, viral superantigens can elicit an autoimmune response in which the immune system targets specific bodily proteins rather than the infectious agent.

Other infectious agents known to cause a “reactive” form of arthritis and rash because of their ability to act as superantigens include cytomegalovirus, streptococcus, mycoplasma, Klebsiella, and Borrelia burgdorferi.

Treatment

Treatment for connective tissue diseases and other autoimmune conditions suspected of being triggered by chronic Human Parvovirus B19 infection include immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory therapy with agents including prednisone, cyclophosphamide, hydroxychloroquine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and etanercept. However, none of these therapies have caused a complete resolution of symptoms.

Resources:

C Magro, M Dawood, and A Crowson, The cutaneous manifestations of human parvovirus B19 infection, Human Pathology, April 2000; 31 (4): 488-497.

C Hammond and J Hobbs, Parvovirus B19 infection of brain: Possible role of gender in determining mental illness and autoimmune thyroid disorders, Med Hypotheses, Dec 28, 2006

D Peterlana, A Puccetti, R Corrocher, and C Lundardi, Serologic and molecular detection of human Parvovirus B19 infection, Clin Chem Acta, Oct 2006; 372: 14-23.

C Magro, R Wusirika, G Frambach, G Nuovo, C Ferri, and P Ross, Autoimmune-like pulmonary disease in association with parvovirus B19: A clinical, morphologic, and molecular study of 12 cases, Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol, June 2006; 14(2): 208-216.

C Magro and A Crowson, A distinctive cutaneous reaction pattern indicative of infection by reactive arthropathy-associated microbial pathogens: The supantigen ID reaction, Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Nov 1998: 538-544.

The copyright of the article Human Parvovirus B19 Infection in General Medicine is owned by Elaine Moore. Permission to republish Human Parvovirus B19 Infection in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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137 Comments

Comments

May 14, 2008 7:42 PM

Guest :

I am a 56yr old female, diagnosed with parvo virus 2 months ago, and still have residual swollen and painful fingers and knees. I am hoping that this arthritic condition willl resolve itself, but do not have alot of hope at this point. I work as a med asst in a pediatric office and assume that this is how I contracted the disease.

Jun 4, 2008 10:02 AM

Guest :

I have just be diagnosed with parvo virus and although I do not have the symptomatic rash, I am certainly suffering with the arthritic-like pains, including my lower back. I definitely hope that this will be a short term setback and not long term! I have previously suffered with an autoimmune disorder which attacked my ovaries and caused me to suffer with premature menopause in my teens. Is there anything I can do to ensure this is short-lived?

Aug 21, 2008 5:05 PM

Guest :

I AM 65YR OLD MALE AN AM TOLD I HAVE HUMAN PARVO. MY FIRS SYMPTOMS WERE SUCH THAT I COULD NOT WALK OR EVEN ROLL OVER IN BED BY MYSELF. THE SECOND DAY 7 1/2 HHOURS IN EMERGENCY. HAD TOO HAVE HEROIN INJECTION JUST TO BREATH. BUT MY ONLY SALVATION FROM PAIN WAS PREDNAZONE, WITH OUT IT LIFE WOULD ALMOST END NOW. SLOWLY ALL MLY SYPS ARE FADING. DOC SAID MAYBE TWO THREE MORE MONTHS ON PREDNAZONE. SAID PARVO WILL BE GONE WITHIN 6 MONTHS TOTAL. THIS IS THE MOST PAINFULL EXPERCIENCE OF MY LIFE. HOPE YOU DONT GET IT!!!!!!!!!!!! MIKE

Aug 28, 2008 10:20 AM

Guest :

I had human parvovirus in 1991 but I was anemic and my hemoglobin had went down to 4.5 and I was hospitalized and was given 3 units of blood. I remember having flu like symptoms. I haven't been bothered with it since. That was 17 years ago.

Sep 8, 2008 9:48 PM

Guest :

I was diagnosed with parvovirus in Deember and still suffering with the symptoms. They are a little bit better now. Had several doses of prednisone. Was taking hydrochoplaquine with good results until I stopped using it. Symptoms returned not as severe so back to M.D.'s Am seeing infectious disease M.D. who has prescribed CoQ-10 and Vit B12 some improvement noted. Just hope I don't have to take Vit B12 injections. Will see. I empathize with everyone. It is very painful and I hope that by the end of the year I will be symptom free. Take care.

Sep 10, 2008 8:24 PM

Guest :

I am 27 years old and i have been diagnosed with Parvo b19. I was diagnosed in March of 2008 and its been six months and i still suffer severely with joint pains, swelling, and extreme fatigue. I myself feel like I have lost hope. Are there any suggestions?

Sep 20, 2008 12:50 AM

Guest :

i am a 34 year old female and have now been diagnosed with parvovirus after 4 trips to see my doctor, firstly i was told it was "hives", obvioulsy due to the rash, i have now had this infection for nearly 6 weeks, and was told it is untreatable, was given ibrufen tablets and piriton to relieve the severe itching of my hands and feet. the worst thing about this infection is the arthritic pain in my wrists, elbows and ankles, i actually feel like a pensioner. i also was informed by my gp that this can carry on for up to 4, yes 4, years. i don't think i can cope with it for that long so fingers crossed, my sympathy goes out to anyone who has contracted this infection, its a nightmare!

Oct 1, 2008 1:05 AM

Guest :

I am 45 years old and have been suffering with polyarthritis-type symptoms since I contracted the virus around 8 years ago. The symptoms are very similar to lupus at this point. I have had Graves disease previously and had my thyroid irradiated with difficulty for many years in maintaining symptom control. The pain can be horrible and I find that if I sleep only up to 6 hours, then I can at least get out of bed. I can minimize flares, which include bilateral pain/stiffness/swelling in my hands, hips, knees, and/or feet/ankles but due to my thyroid disease I am intolerant to many medications. The possability of lupus has come up recently due to current symptom complexes. It has been a long and difficult road.

Oct 3, 2008 11:56 AM

Guest :

Looks like my 11 year old daughter, who has been suffering from joint pain in her ankles for 4 months, has just been diagnosed with it. She has no other symptoms, though. I'm hoping that it can somehow be resolved--without it leading to worse illnesses and/or symptoms.

Oct 3, 2008 11:57 AM

Guest :

Oct 7, 2008 12:43 PM

Guest :

I had a parvo-infection back in january 2004, with all major joints swollen (apart from the hips). I couldn't straighten out my fingers in the morning and the pain was difficult. Normal pain killers had no effect. After 2 months I actually forced the joints back to normal by a shock-treatment of cortison (pills), which helped, but I needed to reduce the cortisone very slowly. After 3 months the joints were fine. A month ago (sept 2008) I was diagnosed with an autoimmune thyroid disease and a neuroligists thinks I have MS as well, so he's sending me to MR-examinations etc. All the various little things connected with these 2 diseases (tiredness/fatique, loss of concentration, dizzy spells, tingling sensations in limbs, numbness etc), started around 2004, and I'm convinced there is a connection.
Would be interesting to know if anyone else has the same kind of experience! /Josephine.

Oct 15, 2008 10:26 AM

Guest :

I am a 31 year old female and I was diagnosed with the Parvo virus in March/April of 2008. The first few weeks I could barley move. I was told the joint pain would get worse before it got better and would probably be that painful for 3-4 months. My joints did get swollen and the pain did last until July 2008. I used to carry my heating pad for my back and hips every where I went. I use a computer a lot and my fingers and wrists hurt so badly that I would have to wear wrist braces to work. The good thing is that the pain is completely gone. I have not had any pain since July 2008. I did recently receive a letter from my GP telling me that she wanted me to have another blood test this month (October 2008)to follow up. I found out today that my ANA blood test came back positive and I now have to go see a Rheumatoligist. I am a little concerned because I am not have any pain but it seems as though having Parvo may have triggred an autoimmune disorder. This is a very very painful thing to go through and I wish no one had to deal with it. The sad part is when I finally feel completely rid of it I find that it may have caused damage!

Oct 17, 2008 8:45 PM

Guest :

I have had chronic parvo for six years now. I just started a blog for people in my condition - a place to educate eachother, share things that have helped, recent studies, advice on doctors etc. If you have persistent Parvo, please stop by. http://parvovirus.wordpress.com/

Oct 22, 2008 10:41 AM

Guest :

I am a normally strong, very healthy 45 yr. old female, that they are suspecting has , or had this horrid virus. I am awiting the blood tests to confirm actual disease. Approxiamtely one month ago I started feeling lousy. Achy, tired, swollen hands, feet, just plain lousy. I fought symptoms, as I am tough and strong, but after three days succum to extremely painful joints, bad headache, neck achy, and fever even with NSAIDS. I saw an MD on call. Not my regular MD. She of course tested for all sorts of stuff, including Lyme. Nothing really signifigant showed up. I have not felt well since. Same type symptoms. Headache, fatique, achy all over especially in my joints, with heat and swelling. Saw my regular PCP recently and we are pretty sure this was Fifth's Disease/Human Parvo B19 virus.

I am still not well and it's been a month. My ESR levels are high, and CRP levels are high. All pointing towards an infection, or some kind of inflammation of some kind. I have always been very strong, healthy and active. But having this has been taking me down as I feel so lousy lately. Not the norm for me.

Oct 23, 2008 9:22 AM

Guest :

About 8 years ago, in my early 40s, I contracted parvo B19 from my young son. Like other childhood diseases like measles and mumps, human parvo can affect adults much worse than it affects other children. It ruined my immune system and gave me arthritis, stiffness and ongoing pain. I was finally helped by switching to a non-wheat, non-gluten diet. Now I feel almost normal again, although I still have minor flareups and remissions.

Nov 3, 2008 2:08 PM

Guest :

I am a 28 year old female. I have had joint pain in my hands & wrists for several years, but never sought medical attention until I worke up one morning a couple of months ago with a rash covering my hands, arms, feet and legs. I could barely move. I went to my PCP and had a positive ANA. I was sent to a rheumatologist who did more blood work and diagnosed me with parvovirus. I am currently taking prednisone and still feel terrible! I am a student and mom and this is totally taking over my life! What a scary thing! I am supposed to have follow-up labs in 1 month.. we'll see what happens then?

Nov 7, 2008 8:21 AM

Guest :

I am 52 and have been battling flare-ups for 18 years since I caught Parvo virus from my son. He also had the horrid reactive arthritis at the time but has not had the continuation of the after affects, thank goodness. We both suffered for six weeks with swelling of joints, rash, weakness, fever but he was only 8 yrs old so his immune system battled it out without issues. As I get older now the flare-ups are becoming more common and more draining. I am at about 4 to 6 per year that last about a week or two. They are unpredictable and seem unpreventable. I hurry up and push myself to the limit when I can and just accept the flare-ups and take it easy when they happen. This disease should be brought to more young parents attention for awareness. My rheumatologist does all she can but due to other health issues I am limited in treatment but it is much like rheumatoid arthritis without the RA factor. The daily aches like you have the flu seem to be standard anymore.

Nov 8, 2008 8:12 AM

Guest :

I was diagnosed with parvo virus in 2001 when I was 47, and had diminishing, but periodic bouts of joint pain for three years before the joint pain disappeared for good. At that time I could find almost no information on this complication from fifth disease. Last year I contracted Guillain Barre after having mono, and am now struggling with residual neuropathy. Three months ago my doctors put me on an anti inflammatory diet. I was skeptical, but the results have been astounding. My symptoms are much less, and I seem to be healing faster now. I don't know if this would have helped me after parvo virus, but anyone suffering with that horrible joint pain might give the diet option a try. My diet eliminates wheat and dairy products, but talk to your doctor first for possible side effects and nutrient supplements.

Nov 11, 2008 2:03 PM

Guest :

I am a 40 year old male who has been recently diagnosed with the human parvovirus. My main symptoms are fatigue, depression, brain fog, pain in both hands and feet, mainly in the joints, along with lower back pain. I noticed these symptoms to be common among people leaving posts here. What I would like to know however, is if anyone has had symptoms related to skin irritation, crawling like feeling, or sensitive skin, almost like a minor sunburn sensation mainly in the lower legs and back? I also recently developed small painful areas on my lower legs which remain painful for awhile, then start to itch and go numb. I also notice strange sensations to my lower legs, hands and feet, like a tingling sensation. My hands and feet also seem to be cold more often than not. I have had my symptoms off and on for about 3-5 years now and wish to find out more about my condition through this site.

Hi Josephine, it looks like we have a lot in common regarding our condition. Leave a post if you wish to discuss this further, or anyone else for that matter. I wish you all the very best in battling your condition.

Nov 18, 2008 10:25 AM

Guest :

Hello, I am so happy to find this website I thought I was the only one with this disease. I have been suffering for about 8 months now, maybe longer it all started with the flu or at least that is what they thought then it went to pluersy then the testing began and about 3 months ago they diagnosed me with Parvo, it is an uphill battle. They took me off the steriods Which helped a bit and off the lupus medication and just started me on a medication called topomax about 2 weeks ago, I really don't feel it helping but I am trying. I take about 6 - 8 Arthitis Tylenol a day to get through it the pain does not go away and as the weather gets colder the pain, headaches and everything else is getting worse, does anyone else feel that way?? I am still having severe problems with my stomach as well things just don't sit well with me sometimes there are days I can eat and days I won't even try. I would love to talk to someone else who knows what I am going through. I am so foggy some days I can't think I say wrong things I am only 42 years old and you would think I was much much older. Please please someone else tell me you have these symptoms as well as all the other horrible joint pains, headaches, etc.....

Nov 20, 2008 9:33 AM

Guest :

I am a 34 yrs old female and was dianosed 2 1/2 years ago while I was pregnant. My symptoms are constant fatigue,joint and muscle pain that comes and goes. I find my flare ups are more when I am under a lot of stress. Unfortunately others around me dont understand the suffering I go through.I wish more research would be put into the disease as we all are aware is extremley real!

Nov 20, 2008 5:33 PM

Guest :

Hey there: Can anyone give me any specific sites to go to for more information? My 10 year old daughter was just diagnosed with this after a long illness that included, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, weight loss, fever and stomach pain. She also had brittle hair and nails. They did a bone marrow biopsy after her PCR ( Polymerase Chain Reaction came back positive. That biopsy was also positive as well as a bone scan that showed activity in her pelvis and femur. She has a bositive IgG, IgM and EBNA for EBV. She has lost 12 pounds and the infectious disease doctors told us that it is very rare and that all treatments are experimental. Some of you say you have had this for 8 months or more. They are suggesting we allow a course of Immunoglobulin therapy as well as an NG tube for the weight loss. They told us that it is almost unheard of in children. My daughter means everything to me and I am determined to find out all I can about this horrible disease. Can anyone help?

Nov 26, 2008 3:27 PM

Guest :

I am a 61 y/o female who was diagnosed with Parvo in May '07,in Jan 07 my husband was hospitalized for 3months and not expected to survive, thank God he did, but I tried to keep things together by sleeping at the hospital with him and then going to my 10 hr/day job...I think the stress let me contract Parvo. I felt better after 2 months. Felt OK till Mar 08...then felt achy and tired increasing by the day...finally culminating in Jun 08 by me not being able to get out of bed and going to the ER... I was given Solumedrol IV and felt better within hours...I was D/C the next day on a tapering dose 30mg of Prednisone...I felt better for 6 weeks...and then started feeling bad again over the next 3 weeks, i called rheumatologist and started on 10 mg prednisone again tapering down and finishing in a month...again 3 weeks later felt miserale...all my bloodwork for rheumatoid factor ANa sed rate are nml...now am seeing a NYC rheumotologist who has me on 2.5 mg prednisone 2 x day.. still feel horrible...he wants me to take this dose steady for 1 month...he says it is a test process...says it may be sero negative RA... I am exhausted, achy , swollen hands and feet...ankles and wrists...and neck...i get occasional single hives? also can't sleep thru nite even though exhausted...because pain wakes me up....( I always was blessed with restful restorative sleep)I wish all of us to be better soon, especially the heartbreak of children who have to deal with this . Happy Thanksgiving

Dec 2, 2008 1:23 PM

Guest :

I am a 32 yr old female,diagnosed with parvo virus 8 years ago. I have seen two orthapedic specialists and four rheumatologists. I have had chronic fatigue, knee pain, back/neck pain, & dizziness ever since being diagnosed with parvo. I have been checked for MS, lupus, RA, and all the "bad stuff". I have had numerous xrays and MRIs. I have taken just about every anti-inflammatory medicine out there. Nothing has helped. Finally, the last rheumatologist I saw, told me this was related to the parvo virus I had all those years ago. He said it would most likely go away,eventually!! I don't think this disease has been studied enough. My only hope is that he is right and I will get relief someday soon!!

Dec 7, 2008 4:00 PM

Guest :

iam 15 years old and have been wondering for the past year y have been getting so sick tired and sore. recently i was diagnosed with parvovirus and i thought finally i know what wrong with me but as i read about this virus i wish i didn't have it. its scary to know the out come of this can be bad and my condition is becoming increasingly worse. in the past couple months i have to quit sports that i was very active in. im hoping this will not last for the suggested 4 years

Dec 11, 2008 4:55 AM

Guest :

WOW!!!
I am so thankful I've found this site esp with all the following comments! Im a retired RN and have not come into contact with this disease condition before, but recent ill health has prompted my MD to consider this test. Having been tested for many things MS, Lymes, Lupus, HIV it is mind-boggleling to find out about parvo B19 causing such serious symptoms. I return to my doc today, to get further labs/test to rule out or confirm parvo B19, wish me luck.
May I also wish my best regards to all the people who wrote comments: that they recuperate + recover from this infection.

Dec 11, 2008 12:20 PM

Guest :

I am a 47 year old female, self-diagnosed myself with chronic PVB19 infection after 9 (yes 9) years. First 3 years, episodic, severe polyarthritis - then 6 years of worsening fatigue, post-exertional malaise, skin (severe itching - amazing relief with powerful antihistamies Doxepin and amitryptilline), then neuro (stroke-like symptoms), then cardiac involvement. It has taken a year and a half to get definitive diagnosis. My bloodwork was NEGATIVE - not unheard of in such a prolonged case, as the virus is known to move into the organs. Developed cardiac complications: "atypical angina" - which is often laughed out of emerg. Thank heavens I'm a (former) medical professional, and believe in science, and my symptoms. Looked up myocarditis and parvovirus B19 on National Library of Med website - presto TONS of research that PVB19 can cause heart disease - but you need to look under the hood to diagnose it. The Germans have been routinely diagnosing and treating PVB19 viral heart disease as the #1 (yes #1) cause of viral heart disease. Keep in mind I've had this now for 10 yrs, so heart involvement may be moot in many of your cases. In this case, an "endomyocardial biopsy", with polymerase chain reaction analysis - I went to Germany, sure enough the biopsy confirmed the diagnosis. NB: Our backs were against the wall, and I carefully considered the risk of non-diagnosis of my worsening cardiac symptoms, against the risk of a heart biopsy. Received IVIg first in Germany - blessed remission of symptoms for 2 months, but I relapsed and after months of advocacy, finally got high-dose IVIg (2g/kg) in Canada, where I live. This is NOT a chronic condition - unless it is undiagnosed and untreated, and unfortunately most of us fall in that category. The Canadian Blood Services 2007 document on IVIg lists it as first-line therapy for chronic parvovirus B19 infection. In the US, Aetna, Unicare, and California Blue Cross all list IVIg as indicated for chronic parvo infection. The parvo causes your immune system to overreact - that's what's causing your symptoms. Steroid treatment will depress those symptoms, but not necessarily eliminate the virus. From what I have been able to find, only high-dose IVIg, and beta interferon can outright eliminate the virus. THEN you need to push for an immune workup to see if you have a "Primary Immune Deficiency" or other that rendered you incapable of fighting off this virus. Will share more as I improve. Parvofighter

Dec 12, 2008 7:44 AM

Guest :

hello to everyone who has posted on this wonderful site, I have also found another helpful wonderful site with a bunch of other people who are going through this horrible disease and may be able to help if you would like to check it out it is : health.groups.yahoo.com/group/themirandamission or you can just google themirandamission and it will show you where to go they used to be on msn and now they are on yahoo, they are very nice and helpful and seem to have been through alot. I hope everyone is doing well and I hope everyone has a nice holiday season! Take care.

Dec 24, 2008 5:51 AM

Guest :

Hi folks, I'm a 44yr old female.
I was diagnosed with Parvo B19 4yrs ago. For the first 3 mos. I was very sick w/high fevers 102-103 and joint pain in almost every joint. Now 4yrs later, I'm still suffering from achy joints and some times for 3-5 days can hardly walk, when it hits my hips. I can go from 4 days of limping to almost perfectly fine. Also since Parvo I get these weird reactions to certain foods, supplements etc., it can be almost anything I put in my mouth and within minutes or a few hours I get these bumps on my face, which are a cross between a hive and a pimple. They hurt like a pimple and in 3 or 4 days they ooze clear fluid, then they dry up, and heal in about 5-7 days. They always have the same exact pattern. You can imagine my frustration after 4 yrs of this... I've had one biopsied and it came back bacterial, not viral, they ? Rosacea. I've been recently to a local Infectious Disease Dr, who sent me to an RA specialist, and both of them couldn’t imagine what I am going through is still Parvo. But everything points to that. I was very healthy and active prior to Parvo.
My RA test turned up Neg. and all my Blood work was perfect, except for the Positive on the Parvo test. Does anyone else have food sensitivities? Know of any Specialist in Parvo? Thanks for listening!!

Jan 6, 2009 2:45 PM

Guest :

I am a 55 yr old female, diagnosed 1 1/2 years ago. I have joint swelling & a lot of pain in my hands,wrists, feet, ankles and hips. I cannot slept for more than 1 1/2 hours at a time because of the pain. I was on aan immune system suppressant for about 5 months but had to stop because I picked up any germ that was within the county. I also have developed heart problems. Another interesting symptom I developed was double vision, diagnosed as 6th optic nerve palsy. Has anyone else had vision problems? I also have constant brain fuzz, and lots of other symptoms, but of course I can't remember what they are. Not much understanding from the crowd around here. Glad to have some people to relate to.

Jan 8, 2009 2:22 PM

Guest :

There is more to this disease than anyone knows and it needs to be out there in the media news and studied extensively! I am a 58 year old female, normally healthy and contracted "Human Parvo" two years ago. My symtoms started when I just felt bad, I guess like flu-like symtoms. Lost my appetite and just wanted to lay in bed. A few days latter, I was unable to walk, move, stand, or roll over in my bed because of the excruciating pain in my joints and muscles. It almost felt as if every part of my body was having severe muscle cramps. You all know how painful those can be, but just times it times 1000. After a week, I could no longer stand the pain any longer and was crying to my husband to take me to the emergency room. No pain meducation helped me, not even morphine. I felt as if I was going to die and at the time would have welcomed death. They ran all kinds of tests and was soon diognosed with the Human Parvo. I was sent to a rhemotoligist who gave me a shot in my hip of steriods. It was some relief then, but since have been diognosed with rhemitoid arthritus in my knees, back, hips, etc. and have chronic pain. Some days I can hardly walk, or even go up a curb. I continue to suffer and its hard for me to do anything some days. I've lost any energy and can't stand for any period of time. I can no longer work and my doctor has me on hydrocodone and this is the only pain relief that has worked. My doctor only gives me enough to last for half a month, as he doesn't want me to get addicted. At this point, I could care less if I got addicted to the meds. My life is nothing as it was and having (9) grandchildren whom are my life, I want to be able to do things with them and can't. I am on disability now and anyone who says this wasn't the result of the Parvo, aren't living my life...So please, please doctor's, need to do more studies. It's like having MS I believe...God Bless All living with this and I wish you and us all a cure soon...

Jan 8, 2009 2:40 PM

Guest :

My 12 year old son was just diagnosed today. He had a rash, red face, itching, back in Dec. Dr. gave him Prednisolone. Two days later, he was so itchy, I took him back to Dr. They said he had poison ivy and gave him Hydroxyzine to help w/the itching. The rash, red face & itching went away for a short time & then came back. We went back to the Dr. yesterday & they said we needed a dermatologist. Saw derm. today who said this is parvovirus B19. They gave my son a blood test & we will know for sure next week. 5th disease has been going around our town. The dr. didn't mention any thing too serious, just said the rash could come & go for a few months. The more I read, the more scary this actually sounds. I hope my son will be ok. Good luck to all w/this virus. I hope you all feel better soon & stay well.

Jan 8, 2009 7:22 PM

Guest :

I am a 40 y.o. female that had parvo when I was pregnant. Confirmed with a positive IGM at the time. It is now 5 years later, I am still having problems. My symptoms now include severe Reynuads, fatigue , joint pain, dry eyes and mouth, losing eyelashes, my big toe is numb, and many more. I suspect I have scleroderma and or MS. My appointment with the rheumatologist is in 2 weeks. I am an RN. And I hope someone does some more research with parvo virus. I have not been the same since I had it.

Jan 9, 2009 6:05 PM

Guest :

50 yr old male living in the tropics, parvo for 3 years.
temperatures, looks like i have sun burn (but its not), rashes on arms, light headedness, cramps, poor sleeping , bad dreams.

now before this came along i had none of these symptoms, but i noticed that a 5 ml valium when the symptoms were bad made me just feel normal so i could continue working like an average person. as parvo makes me so unwell i only take the valium maybe twice a month so it still retains its benefits.

Jan 11, 2009 2:44 PM

Guest :

I came to this site just to get a clearer understanding of Human Parvovirus B19 and happened to see all the comments below. I do hope that everyone who has left comments will be able to see mine for their benefit.

I would strongly encourage anyone that has been diagnosed with HPV B19, to also be tested for Lyme disease. Testing should not be done with just a western blot blood test, as these tests can continually be false negatives (sometimes as many as 8 or 9 times). The reason for this is the Lyme bacteria moves through your body more easily via your muscles and connective tissue rather than through your bloodstream. That is why it is so difficult to get an accurate test. Instead ask your doctor to do a CD57 test which measures your body's natural killer cells. The norm is 60-360. If you are below or even on the low side, this is indicative of having Lyme disease. My understanding from Lyme literate doctors is Lyme disease is the only known cause for lowering these killer cells, just as low T cells are a marker for HIV. Natural killer cells are one of body's major defense mechanisms; with these being lowered it leaves us open for many other issues.

In many of the comments, other symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, stomach issues, headaches, along with the joint pain and stiffness are also plaguing you. Many illnesses are mis-diagnosed including but not limited to MS, Lou Gerrick's disease, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Parkinson's disease, the list goes on and on. The root cause in many of these cases is Lyme disease. My daughter and I both have Lyme disease, along with having other co-infections, HPV B19 being one of them. Many other viruses that are normally kept in check by your system can also go haywire such as Epstein-Barr, CMV, H-Pylori, Mycoplasma Pneumonia to name a few. I am taking time to write this to maybe be able to help someone not knowing why they are dealing with an on going HPV B19 issue. There is much more on this subject, but I will end here. I wish God's best to you in finding answers. Janice

Jan 12, 2009 1:24 PM

Guest :

To any guest that just needs to vent or unload, you can email me at dcjewell@hughes.net. This is a very frustrating and misunderstood disease. Maybe we can help each other get through this. Good luck to all of you.

Jan 19, 2009 7:20 AM

Guest :

A year and a half ago, I came down with a severe case of pneumonia. Shortly after that, while I was recovering, I also came down with Epstein Barr Virus. I became extremely weak, so that I could not get up out of bed or walk normally...I would crawl up the stairs to bed. I had no appetite and ended up hospitalized for a week. The blood tests came back showing a very high Epstein Barr titer and an exceptionally high Parvo B19 titer as well. Since then, I developed severe pain in my legs, arms, and hands. I have been tested for everything...MS, Lupus and Lupus-like, ALS, Myasthenia Gravis, etc. I was sent to the Mayo Clinic in hopes that they could give an answer and a treatment. However, they too could no defintitively define the problem, other than something post viral that came from both Epstein Barr and Parvo B19, and that it could take years for my bosy to recover. It was suggested that these viruses made my immunbe system become super active. They recommended that I talk with my regular physicians to shut down my immune system and take a series of IVIg treatments. My doctors do not feel comfortable in shutting down my immune system. However, the pain is unbearable most days, and I end up taking opiods daily. Nothing else seems to work. I do take scalding hot baths to help with the pain, but this lasts a very short time. I have two young children, and I cannot take care of them. I can't hold them, barely take care of the house or cook. I am supposed to work full-time, but as an editor, I am unable to type for more than a few minutes at a time or hold a pencil without extreme pain...yes, writing this paragraph is causing great pain. I hate having to go back on disability, but the last time I pushed my self like this to meet deadlines and work through the pain and exhaustion that ensues as a result, I ended up in the hospital again. I hope that others can find relief.

Jan 19, 2009 8:19 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
As you might have read, both EBV and Parvo can trigger autoimmune diseases. The idea here is that your immune system becomes exhausted and inefficient. Weakened, it can launch an erratic response and target your body's own cells. If this was the case and you were diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, suppressing the immune system might be helpful. But in general this wouldn't be wise as your goal here is to strengthen, not stimulate, your immune system with proper nutrition, and immunomodulators or adaptogens that help your immune system heal and encourage your body to heal itself.
I recently wrote an article on adaptogens that offers suggestions. Low dose naltrexone, which is being used for EBV infection and Lyme disease, is another therapy essentially free of side efffects that might help. You might want to ask your GP about some of these options that are designed to help you heal without causing side effects or putting you at risk for other infections.
Certain symptoms like joint pain also respond well to herbs like boswellia. I hope you find something to help you improve. If so, please post here so that others affected by Parvo can benefit. Best, Elaine

Jan 20, 2009 10:17 AM

Guest :

The treatment with Acyclovir works even your doctor says no , you have to find a doctor thats want prescribe the medication

Jan 21, 2009 6:57 AM

Guest :

any information about connection between CFS and chronic parvovirus .Treatment with subcutaneous immunoglobulin? side effects?

Jan 21, 2009 10:51 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can be triggered by human parvovirus infection. See this study: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18277075

I haven't heard of topical immunoglobulins used for Parvo although they're used in viral corneal infections. You might want to do a search on Pub Med; the search box will show up in the above link. Best, Elaine

Jan 25, 2009 10:31 PM

Guest :

I am a 54 yr old female and had three cervical fusions in Sept., 2005. In Jan., 2006 I had a severe problem with my hands, wrists, feet, and ankles swelling over a period of 2 weeks. I could not stand to move or have anything touch me. The pain was just too unbearable. When I was finally able to get an appt with a rheumatologist, I was tested and diagnosed as having human parvo virus. The pain improved briefly but returns almost on a daily basis. After 1 full year of monitoring, another blood test was done and it indicated my parvo virus was no longer active and that I now carry the antibody. At that point, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I still get the same swelling and pain and sometimes just as sever as in the beginning. I moved to a different city and tried to find a rheumatologist that would understand. So far that has not been the case. If anyone knows of a good rheumatologist in the Bryan, College Station, Houston, Waco, Austin, Texas area PLEASE SEND ME THE NAME, ADDRESS, AND PHONE NUMBER OF THAT DOCTOR.

Jan 26, 2009 6:44 PM

Elaine Moore :

Austin Rheumatologist info:
A friend gave me this referral. He comes highly recommended.

DR. TEW WEB PROFILE:

http://www.adclinic.com/Doctors_Specialties_Maps/Doctors/MTew.htm

Feb 6, 2009 7:22 AM

gem45 :

I am with you all. 45 year old female who got this nasty virus about 4 years ago. I have been told if it is the Parvo Virus causing my condition to just put ot out of my head because there is nothing that can be done about it.

I have been tested for all kinds of stuff. I know it is the B19 virus that did this to me! I wish you all luck.

Feb 6, 2009 7:39 AM

Guest :

I contracted Parvo about 11 years ago. I still have the arthritis, fibromyalgia and fatigue; last blood work indicated that my body is now producing antibodies to my thyroid...go figure! I found this statement on another page on this website:

"The finding of parvovirus B19 IgM antibodies in a blood sample is consistent with a recent infection. By comparison, only finding parvovirus B19 IgG antibodies indicates an infection some time in the past and the patient now has life-long immunity."

How can there be "life-long immunity" when I know I've had episodes of it following exposure to children w/Fifth Disease? If I have "life-long immunity" why am I still having all these complications and many of the same symptoms that I had at the first attack? I had three episodes, back to back, the first when my youngest daughter had it, 6 weeks later when my older daughter had it and again 6 weeks later when my husband developed the rash. Thank God he never developed the other problems that I've had.

Now, my youngest daughter...she had Fifth Disease at age 4...is being tested for B19V because she has had a sudden attack of the arthralgia, swollen hands/face and fatigue....if she had it when she was 4 she obviously does NOT have "life-long" immunity!

Feb 7, 2009 10:11 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
I'm sorry to hear of the problems you're having with the Human Parvovirus.
In people with active infection flares can occur when there are subsequent exposures to the virus. And as you've read in the comments here, many people continue to have active symptoms of parvo infection for years.

With most viral infections, IgM antibodies develop first and last for several months. They're followed by IgG antibody production. IgG are long-lasting antibodies and in most diseases they provide protection. But in many viral diseases, like AIDS for instance, the disease continues in the presence of IgG and people can be re-infected with different strains of the virus resulting from mutations.

I doubt Human Parvo has been studied at a diligence even remotely close to the study of HIV infection. It's possible that there are different strains of the virus that your IgG antibodies aren't protecting against. And it's possible that long-term active disease is contributing to flares.

I hope your symptoms begin to improve. Best to you, Elaine

Feb 8, 2009 4:25 PM

Guest :

hi... I got B19 Parvo in October 2003. I had not had the flu for 8 years and I thought I had a bad case of the Flu. What I had was Parvo Virus. I suffered horribly for about a year and a half. thank god for vioxx, I could not have moved if I hadn't had it. Every time I get sick with a cold or some virus, I get all over joint pain and very Ill. I went on Prednisone last year for 6 months and now Im in pain management on autoimmune agents and pain meds. My pain management doctor has used an infusion referred to as a "Myers Cocktail" I beleive that it is high doses of vitamin c, vitamins b, and other factors. it seemed to help a bit. Hang in there , what I have read is that this type of "Reactive Arthritis" can last up to 10 years.
god bless, dayna

Feb 8, 2009 6:00 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi Dayna,
Thanks for sharing your experience with Human ParvoVirus and letting us know what therapies have been helping you. Best, Elaine

Feb 10, 2009 5:07 PM

Guest :

I am a 40 year old female who was infected with parvo B19 from my 10 year old daughter in November. I had flu-like symptoms for 3-4 days, followed by a rash on my body, then joint pain. Around 5-6 days after the first signs I woke up with numbness in both hands (carpal tunnel signs).For almost a week I had excruciating nerve pain in both arms down to my hands at night, which would come in waves, followed by numbness. I also had tingling in my feet and edematous swelling in my feet and hands. I went to the emergency room at one point and to my family doctor. Gradually after about 1 month the acute numbness has settled down and I did go to a rheumatologist. He took blood work for immune mediated diseases and parvo titre (no results yet till my re-check in early March). Even though my energy level is better, I still have red and white swollen fingers (worse at night). Significant carpal tunnel syndrome (had nerve conduction study done) (due to swelling in my wrist?) and some joint pain. I wear wrist braces at night (probably not doing anything) and am starting to take vit B, vit D, and omega fatty acids. Thinking I may need to enhance my immune system. Any ideas on how to do this further. I am trying to live with this the best I can. I am hoping that it will all sttle down soon. I hope. I need my hands for my work.

Feb 10, 2009 5:16 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
According to current theory infectious agents, stress and other environmental triggers weaken or rather exhaust the immune system. Anything that affects the immune system also affects the nervous and endocrine systems as all 3 systems are inter-related. If you strengthen, not stimulate, the immune system this can help with healing. If you read my articles on adaptogens, anti-inflammatory herbs, diets for lupus and immunomodulators you'll see that the key here is avoiding foods that cause inflammation, such as sugar and saturated fats, and adding more foods loaded with antioxidant nutrients like fresh fruits and vegetables. Diet can make a big difference. Also check the life extension website at www.lef.org and see what recommendations they have for both neuropathy and for viral infections. They're a great resource. Best, Elaine

Feb 12, 2009 2:59 PM

Guest :

Hi I am a 34 year old female. I was diagnosed with PVB19 3 months ago. My arthritis has been mild but I have had severe hives the entire time. I am wondering if any of you have experienced this?
If you have please feel free to email me
aliknelson@hotmail.com
Thanks!!!

Feb 12, 2009 11:52 PM

Guest :

I am a 23yo female 5 months pregnant and have just found out i do not currently have parvovirus but have had in the past (according to blood tests). I work as a secretary for a Rheumatologist (Arthritis and pain management) for the last 5 years and was told by my GP that I may have caught it from work. The only reason i found out i had the virus was because for 3 days straight i slept and could not get out of bed with weeks of aching muscles. This however is not the first time and everyone just kept saying to me "get used to it...your just pregnant". It shows how little some people understand about the severity of such diseases.

Feb 13, 2009 8:04 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
It's good that you found out a reason for your symptoms. However, with the IgG blood test for parvo, you could also be testing positive from a mild case of Fifth's disease you had as a child. IgG antibodies typically persist for life and offer some immunity from re-infection. Best, Elaine

Feb 15, 2009 10:34 PM

Guest :

Has anyone had a child with Chronic Parvo B 19? My daughter is still suffering from this terrible disease and it has been 8 months. She is very ill. I am having a very difficult time with her school, and our family as she looks ok on the outside. She is in agony on her good days and the fatigue is vicious. She hurts all the time. The school is threatening to report me for her missing. I even have given them her doctors note. They harass the doctor! They have even showed up at my door. They refuse to believe that this "virus" is anything serious. In the meantime my little girl suffers. On the days she forces herself to go the teachers tell her she is ridiculous. She is exhausted. I am getting no where with the doctor who says there is no treatment and everything we can do is experimental. They won't treat her with the medications listed here as she is a child. What can I do?

Feb 16, 2009 10:17 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
The treatments mentioned here are for people with autoimmune disorders that have been triggered by Human Parvovirus B 19. You might do some research on Fifth Disease at places like emedicine.com or mayo clinic's website and see what they recommend for the viral infection. If you find that a specific treatment is being used, you might see if there's an infectious disease specialist where you live that takes pediatric patients. Best to you, Elaine

Feb 20, 2009 4:20 PM

Guest :

I am a 46 year old female. I acquired human parvo b19 4 years ago from my 6 year old boy. Took him to the doctor and they sent him home with a dx of scabies and meds for it. Then one day later I got itchy and went to clinic and they said hives. I was taking medical assisting classes at the time and the nurses at school told me to go home that I have 5th disease. I was in so much pain my mom took me to the ER. I was told that its just the flu and sent home without meds. I was in so much pain I couldn't even hold a glass or a piece of paper. Just after that I was diagnosed with hypothyroid and have a small goiter, my joints have never been the same. Now I came down with a sore throat and as I reached a fever of 103.5 my joints in my neck, shoulders,hands, wrists, elbows, hips, low back, knees, ankles,jaw and even my toes have all flared up. I ended up with bronchitis and it took 1.5 weeks to subside. Then all of a sudden at work last night I turned cold, got sore throat,chills, joint pain, and skin sensitivity. Then after 5 hours had a fever of 102.5 and am in so much pain. I took a 5 day Z pack antibiotic and that didn't help the first round. Now I'm on Levoquin. Told the ER doc about the parvo b19 and that the joint pain feels exactly the same. They tell me that this is the flu but in the past colds and flu cause muscle ache. This is different. I feel like I have arthritis.
Doctors need to be more attentive, the misdiagnosis of my son and myself 4 years ago has cost me a fortune in Ibuprofen and naproxen. Then on top of that in order to get real relief from the joint pain and get an Rx that works I have to claim I have severe back pain or something. I feel that the physicians don't really care. Narcotics bother my stomach and cause me kidney infections, but when I need them I want my physician to be more understanding. Going to the doctor makes me feel like I have to beg or lie to get an Rx for some relief.
Thank GOD for Ambien, at least I can sleep thru the pain.

Feb 20, 2009 4:36 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
I'm sorry to hear that you're still being affected by the parvo virus. I have to wonder if the virus remains latent and then gets activated when there are other infectious agents around. More research is certainly needed on the course of infection and better treatments for it. Best, Elaine

Feb 25, 2009 6:33 PM

Guest :

don't know what I have yet. it has been 3 and 1/2 years of hell-doctor after doctor-have traveled 4 hours away to a doctor still no diagnose-have had blood work for all autoimmune diseases and a skin biopsy still no answers-one doc even told me it is my head-started with a rash-on face and hands-working with kids i of course went ot the doctor but no use,then I developed terrible pain in my legs, hips, back, arms-well everywhere, muscle cramps so bad at night can't sleep. can't even get up from sitting without help from husband and then he has to walk me to bed-has had to wake him up to roll me over-I also have funny feelings in my legs-almost like cold water running down them,hands and feet are always cold and tingle,legs hurt to even have clothes touch them, chest pains(one doc thought I was having a heart attack couldn;t breath easy but EKG was fine, edema of hands and feet,ankles feel like they are broken-some days I don't want to wake up much less get up-seems if I get up and move I seem alittle better-but no one can understand the pain-unbearable at times-hopefully if I bring this up to my doc he will take me serious, baclofen and fluid pills don't work-I go off the fluid pills and in 4 days gained 5 lbs. of fluid-wish we could get an answer-any opinions would be helpful...thanks for letting me vent!!!

Feb 26, 2009 1:47 PM

Guest :

I've been sick with a mystery illness since June 2007. I tested positive for Parvo in August 2007 (both IgM and IgG) and was told that if that was the cause of all my symptoms, it could linger for up to two years. I initially had a low positive ANA (19) but when it was tested a year later, it had gone up to 29. My SED rate varies from 39-90. I've had a few other abnormal test results too but nothing that conclusively points to anything, other than the parvo results.

Oddly, these days, both my IgG and IgM are both normal for parvo, and so is my PCR. That has made my doctors say that parvo isn't the cause of my ongoing health issues, but my symptoms sure seem to be the same as everyone else's.

I blog about my health and situation, and I'd love it if others would take a look and offer me feedback: http://sickmomma.blogspot.com. I also second someone else's recommendation for visiting the Yahoo group TheMirandaMission for people with chronic parvo. It's a good bunch of people, all willing to empathize and share information on an ongoing basis.

Thanks to Elaine Moore for putting this page together, too. It had a lot of information I hadn't come across elsewhere. Thanks!!

Mar 5, 2009 3:46 AM

Guest :

I was recently diagnosed with Adult Parvo disease. I noticed swelling and pain in my joints-formerly healthy 50 year old female. I was told tendenitis and was treated for that to no avail. A Nurse Practioner at my clinis suspected Lymes Disease and did a full bloodwork resulting in the Parvo findings. I am on CYMBALTA-which is an anti-depressent but reduces pain receptors in the brain. I am also on MOBIC which is an anti-inflammatory. I was told I had the Parvo within the past 2 years & it manifest itself as a cold or the flu. My thumb joints are three times their normal size. I have knee, hand, foot, ankle, elbow and shoulder pain. I own a residential cleaning business (self employed) and have had to reduce my workload due to swelling and pain. I am tired ALL the time and am just sick and tired of being sick & tired. I fear "disability" is in my future. My husband tries to understand but do not think he realizes the true detrimental affect of this infliction.

Mar 17, 2009 1:23 AM

Guest :

It is nice to finally find a place where people understand the physical suffering and emotional pain that is dealt to anyone with this infection. On the other hand, after reading through some of the comments I don't see much light at the end of this tunnel and I am beginning to feel a bit hopeless. I am a 46 year old white male with an athletic build and in good shape. I have only been suffering since August 2008 and the thought of this lasting years is enough to make me want to "cash in my chips". Sometimes the pain is so severe it has me looking forward to death. I too have only gained relief by taking prednisone 10 - 15 mg/ day. However I understand that the long term effects of taking this are not good. Enbrel, so far has proven to be worthless. I can manage to appear somewhat normal if I take Percocet. I look at my children and I am so happy it is me with this condition instead of them. Please, somebody find a cure.

Mar 17, 2009 11:40 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
I'm sorry to hear you're not feeling well. I think that many people with parvovirus endure symptoms for 6 months to a year before things symptoms start to resolve. Some people, as you've noted here, do have persistent symptoms and flares, and it's not unusual to hear more from people with persistent problems. I've heard from people with parvo who are getting more relief from boswellia than prescription drugs. Osteoflex now has both boswellia and turmeric, another herb effective at reducing inflammation. This over the counter med would definitely be worth a try and would probably have more effects on overall healing. Best, Elaine

Mar 18, 2009 10:23 AM

Guest :

hello my 7yr old daughter was dx with parvovirsus in november 2008. We have had 3 doses of iv immunoglobulin with the last dose being a higher dose over a 3 day period. In addition to ivIG she needed a blood transfusion. Her Drs. stated with the last high dose the virsus would be flushed out of her system but it has not worked thus far. We will be doing another 3 days of ivIG therapy tomorrow. This virus has caused my child's Bone marrow to look as though it is failing. All her counts are low, red cells, white cells and platelets but her Drs are saying this is all caused by this virus. But all the research I have done on this virus states it only affects the red cells. Is there any link between this virus and aplastic anemia. If so please post something anyone. Also my daughter did not have a rash of any sort also her engery level is about the same until her red cells become transfusion low. And she does not complain of or appear to be in any pain at this point. So if anyone has any answers for us we would greatly appreciate it Thank you

Mar 18, 2009 11:58 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
I'm sorry to hear your daughter isn't feeling well.
Human Parvovirus can occur in the absence of a rash. Has your doctor done tests for IgG and IgM parovirus? IgG shows past infection and IgM shows active infection.
I haven't heard of a link to aplastic anemia but not all of the triggers of aplastic anemia have been identified.
Have you looked up side effects of IVIg therapy? This therapy is associated with a number of side effects, and if it's not helping, you can ask about other treatment options. You might want to see about getting a consult with a hematologist too. Best, Elaine

Apr 7, 2009 7:58 PM

Guest :

I am a 35yr. old female and have been suffering from Parvovirus for exactly one year. Last April I awoke to severe joint pain. I felt like my wrist and ankles were broken or severely sprained. My hips hurt so bad I couldn't lay down, and could barely walk. By early morning I was at the ER, where RA was suspected. The tests came back negative and I was sent home. I couldn't grasp a pen to even sign my paperwork. Fastforward 1 year and I am still experiencing severe joint pain in my wrist and fingers, and occasionally my ankles. Holding a vacuum handle is sometimes impossible. Every morning I wake up stiff and sore. I am no longer able to garden or jump around with my kids without feeling twice my age. I just recently saw an orthopedic specialist who occasionally sees patients with similar symptoms after contracting Parvovirus. He also suspects RA or Lupus. My next step is a rheumatologist. I don't think I have those other diseases. If I do, I can only suspect that the Parovirus was the trigger. I am not sure how sharing my story can help except to say, "You are not alone." Hopefully we all will find some relief and someday a vaccination for those lucky few who have not been infected.

Apr 16, 2009 10:41 AM

Guest :

I am a 26 yr old female who was just diagnosed yesterday with parvo B19 after feeling sick for 10 weeks. I teach in an elementary school and that seems to be where I contracted it. Either my IgG or IgM level was "sky high" the doctor said.

My symptoms have always been more of a sickness (low fever at onset, nausea, headaches that OTC drugs don't relieve, severe dizziness that isn't linked to an inner ear problem, fatigue, non-itchy rash, loss of appetite, inability to sleep through the night, sore throat, and just an overall feeling of being sick). I haven't been able to work for this whole 10 week period due to the above symptoms. I've had slight arthritic symptoms so far that has been felt in my ankles, wrists, knees, and elbows, but nothing so painful that I've needed meds, and pain disappeared within a few days. I am noticing though that for the past 2 weeks my knees have been hurting without the pain going away.

Do "sky high" levels 10 weeks after onset with no real relief from symptoms yet make it seem like this is going to be a long battle that I'm in for?

Apr 16, 2009 10:46 AM

Guest :

Apr 16, 2009 1:46 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
the IgM level is elevated in acute active infection, and the IgG level is an indicator of past infection. The antibody titer signifies your immune system's reaction to the virus. In response to infection, the immune system produces antibodies. It's hard to say how a disease will go but being young and healthy at the onset is generally associated with a better prognosis. Best to you, elaine

Apr 20, 2009 8:16 AM

Guest :

Has a study ever been conducted to see what percentage of people with parvo B19 go on to develop an autoimmune disease resulting from parvo?

Apr 20, 2009 4:33 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
You bring up a good point in asking about the number of people with parvo who go on to develop an autoimmune disease. I'm not aware of any research on this but I'd suspect, as is the case in most infections, that it's only a minority who develop autoimmune disorders. I also suspect there's a lot of people out there who have parvo who haven't been properly diagnosed. Best, Elaine

Apr 22, 2009 3:28 PM

Guest :

Hi, I am a 37 year old mom with two kids, neither which ever had Parvo. I have had severe muscle and joint pain since May 2007. The pain never lets up and doesn't lessen up with any medication. After going to many docs, Infect. Disease doc found it in my bloodwork Sept. 08, he then told me it could take anywhere from one year to ten to burn out of my system! This has ruined my life. I just recently purchased a cane because my hips, knees and ankles hurt so bad, also my elbows and hands and shoulders ache. I barely sleep. After going to pain man this week I now take Lortab and Amrix. Lortab 10's do not even touch this pain. I am constantly in pain and am crying all the time because it makes it difficult to do daily chores, I even have a hard time driving my kids around. Husband does not understand this and family doesn't get it either, think I'm just looking for attention. I feel like this virus is never going to go away. I have felt extremely depressed at times over this. Another doc said I now have myofascial pain syndrome and severe fibromyalgia. Is this because of the virus? No one can answer if the virus ever goes away will my fibro symptoms go away then too? I could only hope. I need a break from this pain. I gave natural birth to my two kids and would do it ten more times again if I didn't have to suffer with this forever, at least with birth the pain does end. I cannot deal with this chronic pain anymore. As the body suffers friom constant pain other parts then suffer too. Like I am constantly irritable, angry and sad, this cannot be good for my heart. The only thing that keeps me going are my kids. I did read somewhere on the internet that there is supposed to be a vaccine for this in about 7 years. At this rate I will be dead before I ever see it. I feel like I have gotten worse over the past two years and am now afraid this virus is now in my bone marrow. Supposedly though I think there is some type of IVIG treatment in Canada but that is not in my future for cost reasons and doc said it doesn't work. Now what do we do?

Apr 22, 2009 3:46 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
A vaccine wouldn't help as it's used to prevent infection. Once infection has occurred, you want meds that stop the inflammatory process and eradicate the infectious agent. You might want to ask your doctor about low dose naltrexone (LDN). I have several articles here as well as a book out on this subject. Clinical trials of LDN in Fibromyalgia are going extremely well, and LDN is effective in many viral infections. I hope you begin to see improvement. Best, Elaine

Apr 22, 2009 4:21 PM

Guest :

I am 48 years old and a 3rd grade teacher. I was diagnosed with parvo virus 6 weeks ago and still suffer daily. When it hit me, it HIT me. I thought I was dying. I couldn't walk without excrutiating pain. I couldn't get comfortable in any position. It was thought at first I had Lupis or RA. I waited 2 weeks before another doctor did the blood work and found my levels for the B19 were 9 times the "normal" positive read. He was amazed and said "I don't even want to know how high it was when it first attacked you". He then noticed that the anti-bodies that my immune system is supposed to be making was extremely low. I am now on prednisone(spell?) and an immune booster to get my body working. I am exhausted. I still have to teach every day. I hurt EVERY day and am tired of being this way. My doctor told me that I could feel this way for 4 weeks to 18 months. I am not certain if I could handle 18 months of this... time will tell. I pray that someone figures out a way to protect people from getting this. It is miserable.

Apr 25, 2009 5:01 PM

Guest :

I had been down with a back injury and was on sick leave from work for a couple weeks. I had a day or so of chills and arthralgias, which seemed to resolve for a couple days. I then was awakened one night by pretty bad pain in my knuckles and found I could barely get my wedding band off from the edema. Worse then the joint pain, however, was the horrific pruritic itch on my feet. I went to my family practice doc, after a night of no sleep because the terrible itch. He sent off a sed rate, ana, cbc and told me it might be a reaction to the NSAIDS I had been taking for my back. I switched to Tylenol and took benadryl and slept that night, but my feet were still quite bad. The next day I again had horrble itchy feet. Imagine running through a field of stickers in wool socks and you have an inkling of the horrendous itch. Another sleepless night pacing and itching, feet soaks, benadryl and tylenol, and there was no visible rash, and I went to his office at opening time in the a.m. He gave an script for prednisone. 12 hours later, and no relief, I stuck my feet in a bucket of ice... and fell asleep. ICE is NICE. The invasion of the virus into collagen seemed to turn. So I never was diagnosed with parvo B19, HOWEVER, my wife, 2 weeks later, has been diagnosed. Her symptoms are worse arthralgias, with milder itchyness. If this nasty virus can lead to an autoimmune pulmonary fibrosis and vasculitis, it is not to be trifled with. The primary symptoms are awful, the sequelae can be worse. If you have these kinds of symptoms, get a diagnosis STAT, and get on steroids. I am an RN, and PF is not a good way to die. Does anyone out there have any good info on mitigating the autoimmune response to Parvo?

May 7, 2009 10:10 AM

Guest :

I contracted parvovirus 4 years ago - the main symptom was the sudden onset of severe joint pain and fatigue. It was finally diagnosed two years ago, after I convinced the doctors to look for something other than depression as the cause. I suffered with joint pain and "bursitis" in both hips until one year ago when I received cortisone injections in both hips. These reduced the pain enough that I was finally able to get some good sleep, which reduced the pain more. I still get flare-ups when I don't sleep enough, I am stressed, the weather is damp and cold, when I am particularly active (walking too much, carrying heavy things, or dancing), or when I sit still for too long (like a long car ride), but the cortisone and being able to sleep better made a big difference. I am worried that the cortisone will wear off and the pain will become disabling again, the flares seem to be getting more frequent and more painful when I have them - I don't want to spend the rest of my life limping and unable to do things. Some of the suggestions I have heard include vitamin D supplements, which I will be trying. I see here there are several people on IVIg therapy - when should this be considered as an option? Pain is such a subjective thing, and everybody experiences some pain as they age - when is it enough that you should try to do something about it?

May 7, 2009 10:30 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,

I think you'd want to do more than you're doing for pain when it interferes with your quality of life. Then, you'd want to consider the side effects of the various therapies and weigh any risks against any benefits. Vitamin D may help your immune system heal but as for symptomatic relief, it won't immediately take care of pain. Things I'd try to help ameliorate pain include boswellia, curcurmin (these 2 are in osteoflex), ginger, and other anti-inflammatory herbs. To help your immune system heal which could help in reducing flares and help you move into remission, I'd avoid fast and processed foods, wheat and refined sugar and any allergens and incorporate more raw and fresh foods into your diet. Plant bioflavinoids would help in reducing inflammation (which triggers pain) and it would reduce oxidative stress, helping your immune system heal. I'd also consider low dose naltrexone since it's a strong anti-viral agent and a potent immunomodulator. You can find my articles on low dose naltrexone, anti-inflammatory herbs,IVIG theray and boswellia on this website.
Best, Elaine

May 8, 2009 3:30 AM

Guest :

Like many others, I was very pleased to have found this forum. I'm a 42-year-old male Brit whose blood test was positive about three years ago. I presented to my doctor with the classic trunk rash. Since then, I've suffered flare-ups several times a year of what feels like a whole-skeleton arthritic attack, from my scalp, down my neck and back and through to limb joints, combined with all-body skin sensitivity. Luckily, these attacks don't last too long (maybe a few days) but are combined with feelings of depression, general fatigue and sometimes an inexplicable 'brain fog'.
Last night was bad but I'm a little better this morning and able to go to work at my desk job. My fingers, ankles and neck still ache to the core, though. Really useful to see suggestions here for lessening the symptoms, such as a wheat-free and dairy-free diet. I might try out some of these ideas. But I'm not willing to abandon coffee or alcohol yet.
I see in the information above the comments that symptoms can include a genital tract infection. I had that some months ago and no obvious cause was found. It cleared up with provident use of a mild steroid cream, and I wonder if there's a connection with my B19 infection diagnosis. Thanks for everyone's posts here, much appreciated. Adam (aka boatman_uk).

May 8, 2009 3:57 AM

Guest :

PS: further to my comments above, I would be happy to talk to others in the UK with similar experiences, especially if anyone knows of any GP/doctor recognition of complications through Parvovirus B19 infection diagnosis. Thanks. Adam: boatman_uk@hotmail.com

May 8, 2009 8:50 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi Adam,

Human parvovirus can indeed show up as a genital infection. If you find the first article listed in the resources on cutaneous manifestations you'll find more information there. Also, some of the symptoms you're mentioning like mental fog are symptoms of hypothyroidism, which can be triggered by parvovirus. Be sure to ask your doctor to check your thyroid levels the next time you have an appointment.

Here's a link to more information:
http://www.unboundmedicine.com/medline/ebm/record/10821497/full_citation/
The_cutaneous_manifestations_of_human_parvovirus_B19_infection_
Best to you, Elaine

May 13, 2009 4:48 AM

Guest :

My elderly mother who had cancer recently and was on chemo has been very sick with other symptoms (severe fatigue, joint pain, weakness). We just discovered she had parvo. We faguely remember her having red cheeks months ago as well as a rash. It took 3 months for doctors to find out what was wrong. They are in the dark about parvo and we have had to demand that she receive immune globulin to help. It is a shame that she survived cancer but probably will not survive this as her condition worsens every day and she is suffering!

May 13, 2009 8:34 PM

Guest :

I am so glad to find this site. My DR finally got the labs back today and my IgM was greater than 9, which I am to understand is a current infection and definitely Parvo. I started out on Easter Sunday feeling queezy and having to pee every 5 minutes. On Monday I had an excruciating headache, then went to bed early thinking I had a migraine. Instead of sleeping, I suffered all night long with a horrible fever and bone crushing like hip and back pain. The next to come was swollen Lymph nodes all over my head and neck and behind my ears. I realized this wasn't an ordinary migraine and went to the DR's, who tested me for Lyme. The first test said that I was positive for one of the 3 "bands", equivocal for the second so she treated me with doxycycline. After 2 days on the antibiotics, I awoke to a severe rash on my arms and legs and my knees were so swollen I was unable to walk. After a weekend of vomiting up the antibiotics, I was finally hospitalized to find out what was going on. They re-did my Lyme test and said this time it was negative, but had no clue what I had and discharged me. Now I have random moments throughtout the day where my fingertips will sting and turn completely white...after a few minutes they turn purple. I am short of breath, so confused I have to carry around a dry erase board and write what to do next...my joints still hurt, I have little hand strength, my vision is at times blurry. The fatigue is the worst part, because I was diagnosed LAST YEAR at this time with NARCOLEPSY after years and years of being told I had depression and was lazy. I am sooooo frustrated. My body hurts, my mind is cloudy, I can barely stay awake (even on my narcolepsy medication). The Infectious disease DR said I should be feeling better now since this has been going on for over a month and seems to think it's no big deal, but I still feel awful! I'm only 31, I have a hyper Autistic 4 year old to keep up with, and all I can really do is medicated myself a few hours a day with my adderall and sugarfree redbull in an attempt to stay awake. I spend most of my day standing around trying to remember what it was I was "just going to do". What can I do to get over this, and when will it go away?? ANy suggestions are highly appreciated and you can email me at surf78girl@hotmail.com. Thanks to ANYONE still reading!!--lisa

May 14, 2009 8:54 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi Lisa,

I'm surprised your infectious disease doc doesn't realize how debilitating human parvovirus can be. Because parvovirus can also trigger the development of autoimmune connective tissue diseases you may want to see a rheumatologist. Some of the symptoms you're describing sound like those of Raynaud's syndrome.

I hope you start feeling better soon. Best, Elaine

May 14, 2009 9:00 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,

I'm sorry to hear that your mother is suffering from human parvovirus infection. Here's an article that you might find helpful:

http://www.aafp.org/afp/20070201/373.html

Treatment is primarily supportive and geared toward reducing symptoms, but you also need to watch for complications and for connective tissue disorders that can occur. I hope your mother begins improving soon, Elaine

May 14, 2009 3:04 PM

Guest :

I am a 39yr old female diagnosed with Parvovirus last month and today I have finished the fourth of five IVIG treatments this week. I started having flu-like symptoms last May with recurrent bouts off and on about every two months until March 2009. Since that time I have had pretty continuous symptoms of low grade fever, joint pain, headache, sore throat, rash, nausea, etc. My rheumatologist referred me to infectious disease after testing negative for RA, lupus, etc. The ID doc diagnosed me right away and started IVIG within days. He says this should take care of all symptoms within 2-4 months. The treatment has been rough with severe headache, fatigue, back pain, neck pain, nausea. It will be so worth it if it works. If anyone else has had IVIG treatment I hope you will share your experience and response.

May 18, 2009 9:21 PM

Guest :

Hi:
I am 43 yr old mom/nurse who is currently training for the Ironman triathlon. I did this triathlon last year --the event involves a 2 mile lake swim, followed by a 112 mile bike ride and then a marathon run of 26.2 miles, all on the same day. I had a great time at the event last year and have looked forward to this challenge so very much all year. Just at this precious time, as I need to start the last phase of training (which involves long miles)...I am diagnosed with Parvo B19 and acute arthritis!! At present I have missed 3 weeks of training and a marathon :(
I am very grateful to have found this site, as I am in the decision making process re: just learning to live with the pain and train through it(gently), or seek active treatment. Just doing daily activities involves joint pain/weakness and fatigue that I have never experienced before. The general medical consensus seems to be that these symptoms just clear up on their own and are not followed by any health risks...I had my doubts and these are clearly confirmed by all the information shared here.
Based on what I have read here, I will be going in to the doctor asap to see what my options are. I very much want to be at the start of the Ironman in August ... I will be there with pain or without and will try not let this stand in the way. But all the information you have shared has been a HUGE help to my decision to seek followup medical care vs just trying to wait it out and "fix it myself"(as nurses are often prone to do).
A very big thank you for all who have shared their stories here...it is really appreciated and very good information ... a huge help, indeed!! :)

May 19, 2009 1:41 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
Good luck with the Iron Man if you're able to do it. I truly admire your determination. I hope you receive treatment that helps reduce symptoms and that enhances the healing process. Best, Elaine

May 25, 2009 2:15 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
Human Parvovirus B19 can trigger the development of rheumatoid arthritis. RA is fairly easy to diagnose with blood tests for rheumatoid factor (RF) of CCP. In RA, nodules can also appear. Parvovirus itself can cause arthritic symptoms but with the correct tests it should be easy to differentiate these two types of arthritis. Best, Elaine

May 27, 2009 6:38 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
You can have a recurrence of your latent viral infection or you could have been re-infected with another strain. You could also have a connective tissue disorder as a result of human parvovirus. Adults seem to have a worse disease course than children. I hoe you feel better soon. Best, Elaine

Jun 6, 2009 2:07 AM

Guest :

Hello~My name is Tiffany. I just turned 28. I am very disappointed in my life so far. I have a degree in Elementary Education, but no experience, my state has to pay for first-year teachers to have "mentors" and be evaluated, and there's just not enough money for new teachers. I'm just another statistic.
Anyways, my life has revolved around health problems since I was 20-that's when I broke my back. I was cliff jumping, landed incorrectly (with my rear hanging out a bit too far) so from almost 100 ft. up, 10 stories in the sky, I finally hit the water which felt like concrete and caused my bottom two vertebrates to explode on inpact. I got a couple higher discs that are pushed to the right-but it's healed that way-incorrectly-with trapped nerves and all types of problems. I had Fifths disease when I was 10 or 11, and Parvo at about 22. For the last 2 years I've been told I've got psuedo-gout because my knees swell up with tons of fluid and they hurt. I usually have to get them aspirated. Now they are saaying it was never gout, my body is attacking my cartilage and joints, and I have an autoimmune disease. what's up with that?
My sysmptoms are mainly: low energy, anxiety and depression, pain where I shouldn't feel any, cramps and tenseness in muscles. Seems like it takes longer for my body to reach and stay in a restorative sleep, I can sleep 12 straight- even more. What is this pointing to? I've had a couple of full metobolic make-ups done and evrything is good and healthy. there are no crystals in the fluid biopsy.
Please help!
~Tiffany

Jun 6, 2009 9:43 AM

Elaine Moore :

Dear Tiffany,
I'm sorry to hear about the problems you've been having. Usually we see crystals in joint fluid when patients have gout or inflammatory arthritis.

It sounds like you had a human parvovirus infection as a child and then a recurrence about a decade later. As mentioned in the article, human parvovirus b19 can trigger the development of several different autoimmune diseases, including connective tissue disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. Parvo can also cause its own symptoms of arthritis.

Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system launches an immune response that targets your body's own tissues. In the connective tissue disorders, the immune system targets the joints. You probably want to see a rheumatologist for further testing to see if your symptoms are related to the viral infection or if you've developed a specific autoimmune condition. Best to you, Elaine

Jun 6, 2009 4:33 PM

Guest :

Thank you very much Elaine!
~Tiffany

Jun 12, 2009 6:04 PM

Guest :

I am a 39 yr old female diagnosed in April 2009 with symptoms that started in June of 2008. These were flu-like symptoms that were off and on about every two months until March 2009 in which they have become almost constant. I underwent 5 consecutive IVIG treatments about a week after being diagnosed and thought after about a week I was doing better. Then about 15 days after infusions symptoms returned like before. My ID doc said there was nothing else he could do as I had received the only treatment available. I saw my PCP who did lab work and found my WBC and neutrophil count elevated and started me on another antibiotic. I don't know what to do or who to see? If anyone is in the Charlotte/Gaston County area of North Carolina and could recommend a doc to see this would be greatly appreciated. I feel I am at my wits end.

Jun 27, 2009 1:17 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
The blood test results will show if you've been infected with human parvovirus B19. Symptoms can vary but generally arm swelling isn't listed as a symptom. If the test is negative you might ask about tests for Epstein-Barr Virus, Lyme Disease or cytomegalovirus. Let us know what the tests show. I hope you begin to improve soon. Best, Elaine

Jul 12, 2009 7:06 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
A positive IgG test shows that you have been infected with parvovirus in the past. An IgM positive result indicates active infection and can be used to show that active infection is causing your symptoms.
Your diet is important in helping your immune system work effectively and fight infection. Avoiding sugar and saturated fats and eating more nutrient-rich foods can be helpful. Best, Elaine

Jul 15, 2009 3:12 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
Yes, Human Parvovirus B19 can cause genital lesions. Other autoimmune disorders that can also cause genital lesions include Behcet's disease and pemphigus. Best to you, Elaine

Jul 17, 2009 8:55 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
If you normally have low levels of immunoglobulin M (IgM) your IgM Parvo test result can be non-detectable. An immunoglobulin profile would tell if you have a deficiency of IgM.

It's also possible that you're past a fairly recent infection and are still showing signs of infection.
Another possibility is an autoimmune connective tissue disorder that's triggered by parvo.
Regardless of the cause your doctor will now be helping you manage your symptoms. For instance, IVIg is used in parvo infection and it's used in arthritic conditions. Best, Elaine

Jul 28, 2009 11:22 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
I'm sorry to hear your parvo infection is still causing problems. You could ask your doctor to run an ANA test to see if you've developed a connective tissue disorder triggered by the parvovirus. You might also want to ask for a TSH to see if you've developed a thyroid disorder. If you're not receiving treatment for parvo you could continue to have a recurring infection. Best, Elaine

Aug 7, 2009 5:17 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
You can have a recurrence of infection that causes symptoms. Parvo isn't routinely tested for in pregnancy so you also might want to confirm past infection.

A blood test for IgM parvo antibodies would indicate a current infection.

You can help protect your immune system with immunomodulators or adaptogens, which help in strengthening and not stimulating your immune system. Avoiding known allergens and foods that promote inflammation, such as sugar and saturated fats, will also help.A nutrient rich diet and a whole foods diet can offer benefits. You probably already have ample dietary restrictions but you can help matters by avoiding processed foods as much as possible. I hope your symptoms resolve soon. Best, Elaine

Aug 10, 2009 10:11 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi Jenn,

I'm sorry I didn't get your other posts. I'm not sure what happened unless they came at a time when the website was down.

Be sure to have your thyroid levels checked. Low levels can cause brain fog and muscle changes. Autoimmune thyroid disorders can be triggered by parvo.

I think your symptoms are related to a severe disease course of parvo. You might ask about IVIG therapy to help reduce your symptoms. Best, Elaine

Aug 13, 2009 1:58 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
It can take some time for your body to fully get over parvovirus infection. You might want to ask your OB/GYN if there's a timeframe to wait before trying to conceive. You could also ask your doctor for a full workup, including thyroid function tests. Best, Elaine

Aug 14, 2009 4:35 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi Jenn,
It's a shame you don't have the NAT PCR test results back yet. Your lab should have sent the specimen to a reference lab. If your doctor doesn't have the results yet he should repeat this test so you can start on IVIg if it's needed.

Ask your doctor about the neck crunching. I have the same thing and also no pain. I have osteoarthritis in my neck.

Your doctor may want to do an MRI if he thinks there's any neurological changes, but I suspect he'll think your symptoms are related to the parvo infection. You could ask for a CBC and an ANA. Best, Elaine

Aug 19, 2009 8:19 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
Since your infection is no longer active, antivirals wouldn't help. You can help your immune system with proper nutrition and supplements, but still healing can take some time. Best, Elaine

Aug 22, 2009 12:51 PM

Guest :

I got Fifth's Disease (Parvo) at the beginning of June from my niece. I had every symptom including the rash. Then I infected my two kids (they both recovered quickly). Initially I had swollen and painful joints in my right hand only. I saw my MD and she gave me 7 days of mobic which did not seem to do anything for the pain or swelling. No blood work was taken and she told me to come back to see her if things did not improve, but in the meantime we went on vacation and while on vacation I got pain in my knees and ankles, plus some stiffness in the neck. I am surprised that at month two my arthritic symptoms are worse. Is that usual? I am frustrated that I have been to my doctors twice and no blood work was taken. Instead of returning to my regular dr. I have an appointment with a infectious disease doctor in two weeks. In the meantime has anybody had any positive results with diet change. I am taking fish oil and Inflamend (a New Chapter product). Also, I have tried Motrin and Alleve and aspirin, but none seem to make a difference. My doctor initially wanted to give me a steroid, but that seemed counterproductive to me since it surpresses the immune system rather than bolstering it.
Laura

Aug 24, 2009 5:28 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi Laura,
Many symptoms in infectious diseases are related to inflammation. Corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation and offer relief of symptoms. They can be used until the inflammatory process starts to resolve. Unfortunately, the disease process in adults can be persistent. If your rash and symptoms were characteristic of Fifth disease, your doctor may not have seen a need for blood tests. Best, Elaine

Aug 29, 2009 3:08 AM

Guest :

I am writing this with a heavy heart. I have had Parvo for over 20 years. It took a month to diagnose. I had all the typical symptoms which apart from the poly arthritis seemed to have gone away. My temper was vile. I had a handicapped child (no connection) and my ability to be nice to her and people was so difficult. 15 years later my Bi-polar is confirmed and treated and I am now a human being not a person with no control over my life.

I have trigemnal nuralgia, poly-arthritis, total and absolute fatigue and have thyroid problems. The only times I was normal over the years was when my behaviour became such that they gave me some form of Diazapam but of course took me off. The Diazapam helped with the nuralgia and so I was able to cope with the pain. They would then take me off it (no slow reduction) and it would all bang back.

I am now in France. I am being treated with drugs that help with the pain, TN, Bi-polar in one hit. I am on Prozac as I was suicidal - funnily enough they finally put me on that in the UK just before I left as I was so distressed.

In all the years in the UK it was put down to the effects of having a disabled child and adult even though I had a positive test for PV.

The only problem with something like PV is that it hides other things. It hid a tooth abscess for 4 years. I diagnosed it but because it was not showing on an X_ray it was not treated. I had a sonogram before I went to see a nurologist and they found 4 sites of infection. This had aggravated the TN which is here to stay. The TN is an horrendous face problem which means I cannot go out in the mildest breeze.

I am now at the age of 62 unable to stay awake for more than 8 hours a day. Cleaning the house is impossible. Changing the bed linen is an excuse to climb into bed to sleep for a couple of hours.

I have had 2 partners since I caught the disease and one was tested and positive and the 2nd they did not bother to test. They both had it in their eyes and now both have arthritis. You need to treat transfer as you would HIV and that goes both ways. It is in the blood.

From not being able to have a sheet cover my body from the pain when I contracted this to a state where I would happily sleep for 24 hours a day and have a mental illness. My French doctor had never heard of it but looked it up immediately and believed my symptoms and said I was Bi-Polar. More than I got in 15 years in the UK. Being sane most of the time means I no longer want to die :) Diane

Aug 29, 2009 7:31 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi Diane,
Thank you for sharing your experience with parvovirus. It will help many others. Best, Elaine

Sep 3, 2009 8:49 AM

Guest :

This is a great article! I came across this article because I am feeling at a loss lately. My kids ended up contacting 5th Disease in Spring of 2008. They did not have any complications with it except a lacy rash and red cheeks. I got sick pretty bad with it (fever for 5 days, lacy rash, purpura rash, severe joint pain, and painful swollen lymph nodes in the back of my head near my neck). I ended up in the hospital because my doc didn't know what was wrong with me. Anyways, that was in April of 2008. I got better. Then February 2009, my toes in feet began to hurt. Every month more joints started to hurt. Now today the bones in my hands and feet hurt daily. My knees are stiff when not moving for awhile. I am 33 yrs old and I feel a lot older! I saw a Rheumatologist, he said my SSB, ANA and PCR all came back positive. But he thinks that the PCR for the Parvo B19 test is causing a false positive with the positive Lupus and RA. What do you think? I am still hurting worst, I am not getting better. I am beginning to get depressed like nothing can help me. I also have Colitis (an autoimmune disease that only affects my colon). This just doesn't make sense that I tested positive for Parvo if I had it over 1 year ago! Sorry this is so long.

Sep 3, 2009 12:36 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
In adults Human Parvovirus B19 can run a longer disease course so it's not surprising that the PCR test was positive.
The ANA test isn't specific for lupus. It's positive in many different autoimmune conditions and it can be positive in low titers in the absence of any disease. The SSB test is most likely to be positive in Sjogren's Syndrome, but it can be also positive for no reason.
There are several treatments, including IVIG therapy, that are used to help stop the disease course in parvo infection. With your PCR being positive it's likely that your symptoms are related to active infection. I hope you start feeling better soon. Best, elaine

Sep 6, 2009 10:21 AM

Guest :

I am 27 year old female, and was just diagnosed with the parvo virus. I have had headaches, runny nose, swelling in my hand, joint pains in my knees, back, ankles, and toes, light fever. I have not had any rashes, but pretty much am enduring most of the syptoms with this virus. I am hoping that this isn't a long process of annoyance. Not many people understand my frustration which makes things difficult to deal with.

Sep 8, 2009 12:45 PM

Guest :

I am the 46 year old white male who posted a comment here back on Mar 17th 2009. I was in so much pain and suffering so badly from fatigue that It controlled every aspect of my life. I lost my job, and so much more. But now that I have been dealing with this for 1 year, I am happy to report that I am experiencing great improvements as a result of Minocycline 100mg twice a day and just 5mg Prednisone. I highly recommend that anyone suffering with Parvo and that excruciating pain talk to their doctor about getting on such a regiment. This has TRULY been a major turning point for me.

Read more: http://autoimmunedisease.suite101.com/article.cfm/human_parvovirus_b19_infe ction#ixzz0QXsmBaKk

Sep 9, 2009 11:10 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
Thanks so much for sharing your positive experience with minocycline and low dose prednisone. Others will benefit! Keep well, Elaine

Sep 16, 2009 1:28 PM

Guest :

I have been having issues for a few weeks now, in addition to a bout last year around this time. THis time around my symptoms are mild hair loss, tightness in neck, numbness in face, feeling of hot water in ears, joint pain in hips, shoulder, hands and lower back. I am in a mental fog where concentration is truly difficult. My family doc ran me for a myriad of tests including lyme. Parovirus test came back that I do not have it now, but I did in the past. I questioned when, but they could not determine and only knew that it was not recent. Do you think my symptoms could be from parovirus or that it triggered autoimmune disorder? The only other issue with my blood work is that I have a slightly elevated rheumatoid factor. I have appts with a rheumatologist next week. Can any of you recommend tests that you have had to designate what could be going on? I have 2 little girls that I need to keep up with. I am only 33 and generally very active. This really has sent me for a spin and I want to be better!! Peace to all! Holly

Sep 17, 2009 5:22 PM

Guest :

Hi Holly,
It could be either from the virus or from an autoimmune related disorder. Having tests for ANA and CCP (for rheumatoid arthritis) would be helpful. I hope you feel better soon. Best, Elaine

Sep 19, 2009 9:51 AM

Guest :

Hi,
Your symptoms could be from either the parvo or an emerging autoimmune disease. An ANA test can be useful to see if a rheumatic condition is occurring. Did you see the post from the person helped by minocycline and prednisone? that might be worth mentioning to your doctor. best, elaine

Sep 23, 2009 1:11 AM

Guest :

Does anyone have this rash on their face? Do your rashes itch? I have had this rash on my face for 7 weeks. It is spreading to my neck and chest. The dermatologist told me I had sebborrhea. I also have painful joints in my hands, ankles,hips and low back. I have chronic fatigue and mild depression (new symptom). 1 to 3 times a day I get a flush feeling in my head. My podiatrist said it sounded like Parvo. Tomorrow I see the dermatologist again. I am going to bring this up to him. I was concerned I might have SLE.
Any advice. I am 48 and postmenopausal for 2 years. I find the rash improves when I take benadryl.

Sep 23, 2009 9:56 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
Rash is usually more common in children with human parvovirus B19. You might want to read the article I wrote on dermatitis herpetiformis too. Best, Elaine

Sep 25, 2009 8:50 AM

Guest :

Hi Elaine,

I am 40 years old and believe that I got fifth's disease from my son a year and a half ago. He had the classic "slapped cheek" and lacy rash as well as the slight fever/cold systems about a week before the rash. I never took him to the doctor because everything I read said there was nothing a doctor could do and he wasn't feeling sick. At the same time I started having swelling in my knees, wrists & ankles. I went to the doctor and was eventually tested for Fifth's but my tests were negative. I have been tested for everything under the sun and my Rheumatologist still believes that it is fifth's even though my tests did not conclude that it was. Do you have any suggestions as to why I would have tested negative for fifths but have all the symptons (as well as my son having it at the same time). I went for months not hardly able to move without help (extremely miserable) but with the help of a low dose of prednisone and Naproxen I can now function but it is not gone. I still worry that all my bloodwork has been negative all along and we are missing something. The doc just says that sometimes we never know what causes this and it will eventually go away. After a year and a half I'm not sure about the going away part!!
Thanks for allowing me to post! Please offer any suggestions or advise.
Sharon

Sep 27, 2009 6:59 PM

Guest :

I am a 40 year old Mom of two. Had a second baby in December and have been stressed and tired ever since. Went to the MD many times and was told I am have depression, anxiety, sleep deprivation, etc. After the 4th visit I told her about my aching joints and peeling skin on hands and feet. My MD mentioned Parvo Virus which we tested for and I had. She also mentioned Fibromyalgia. I have bouts of peeling skin on hands/feet, aching joints, brain fog, tired/fuzzy eyes, dizzines and even some stumbling. Is the brain fog and stumbling normal? I'm wondering if I should have other tests done? There are times that I feel I'm going to pass out. Do other people have these same symptoms?

Sep 28, 2009 6:27 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
Be sure your doctor has tested you for thyroid disease. Hypothyroidism can cause depression, fatigue, and arthritis pain, and it can be triggered by human parvovirus.
Some of your symptoms may be caused by the parvovirus and your doctor can prescribe meds that help reduce your symptoms. Best, Elaine

Sep 28, 2009 7:21 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
You probably no longer have the active virus but are suffering from the effects of having it. This would cause your PCR test for live virus to be negative. If anyone is doing tests for parvovirus antibodies, which indicate past infection, your test would likely be positive.
Because parvo can cause symptoms after the illness resolves, including autoimmune disorders, it would be good to have tests for ANA, rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid disease as these conditions can all be triggered by human parvovirus B19.
Best, Elaine

Sep 29, 2009 4:43 PM

Guest :

I was diagnosed with Parvo when I was 18 (12 years ago), and the diagnosis did not come easily. It started with an achy pinky finger. I told my father I thought I had arthritis and he laughed at me. The major onset was fast and furious. Over one day, my knee swelled up to the size of a grapefruit and I had a fever of 104. I was taken to emergency, put on painkillers, and sent hom with crutches. I went from crutches to walker to wheelchair. I was bedridden for 3 months. I was on various steriods, anti-inflamitories, and tons of painkillers. I had extreme swelling in every joint of my body. I could not shower or bathe on my own. After I could move on my own again I went back to junior college with a cane which I used for about 4 more months. It took me about 2 years to get a full range of motion back. Now I have residual arthritis in a few joints because of the deterioration caused by the fluid in my joints. Terrible experience but it helped me to appreciate life and mobility.

Sep 30, 2009 8:08 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
I'm glad you're doing better now. 18 years ago parvo was a fairly new disease and rarely recognized. Only a few labs in the country even ran tests for it. Thanks for sharing your experience and I hope you continue to improve. Best, Elaine

Sep 30, 2009 11:12 AM

Guest :

To the lady who has the 7 year old daughter who has the Parvovirus, our daughter has the exact same symptoms as yours. The bone marrow looks as if it is failing and we have been though test after test. No one seems to think this virus can cause the bone marrow to react like this. After reading your story I am sure that is what our daughter has and would like to know if your daughter is now better. Thanks.

Oct 1, 2009 9:51 AM

Guest :

Hi Elaine,

Just wondering if I have had the parvovirus and it knocked my blood counts down,how long would it take for them to come back up to normal?

Oct 1, 2009 11:16 AM

Guest :

I live in NC. I am a 27 year old female. I was in Florida on a trip and on the way back I noticed I had a rash on my feet and legs. I stayed the night in SC and the next day the rash had spread to my hands. I came home to Reidsville, NC and went to the Emergency Room. They said (without taking any tests) that I had Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. I took the antibiotics they gave me and it slowly started getting better. I did have to go to the ER again a few days later due to the pain and they didn't do any tests again, but they gave me morphine and sent me home. I couldn't walk and it felt like my feet were going to explode they were so swelled up.I was frustated by the lack on info so I called the CDC and they hooked me up with the local health department. They did blood tests which came back indeterminate but they hooked me up with an infectious disease doctor in Greensboro. If you are around the area Dr. Lane's office at Moses Cone Hospital is the greatest place ever. He said it looked like parvo but he would do tests and he called me personally to tell me it came back positive for parvovirus. I got on the internet to research it and found this wonderful site! I love all the info here and all the wonderful people who are going through what I am going through. I have fatigue, joint pains in ankles, feet, hands, elbows, knees and my feet swell up everytime I put shoes on. I am tired and I experience the brian fog that everyone has gone through. It has been a little over 3 months now since i got it and it has been the worst thing I have ever been through. I still suffer from everything and it doesn't seem to be getting any better. I have taking ibeprofen and tylenol till I puke and still hurt. I have an appointment with the dr in 3 wks and I am hoping for some kind of relieve. I do not want to take pain pills because I am too young to be on meds like that everyday. I refused the vicodin the dr tried to give me and I just want to understand this illness and learn to live with it and do what I can to get better. I just wanted to put my story out here so others might see it and learn something from it. I thank you so much to everyone for putting this info out here. It has been helpful and given me plently to talk about to my dr!

Oct 1, 2009 5:23 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
In the acute phase of viral infection, the WBC typically falls, and you can see an increase in lymphocytes. Within 2-3 months the count should be back to normal although this varies depending on how your immune system is reacting to the virus. And during the recovery phase of infection, you can see other changes, for instance, an increase in monocytes. Best, Elaine

Oct 4, 2009 1:00 PM

Guest :

hello, i was diagnosed with parvo virus about 3 months ago, and although all symptoms seemed to have gone away, my immune system is terrbible. I've been having frequent yeast infections, frequently getting sick,and just maliase/fatigue. I've recenlty just had a cbc, pap smear and an hiv test,which were both normal/negative. Could parvo still be responsible for my weak immune system.

Oct 5, 2009 10:05 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
Yes, parvo can definitely challenge your immune system. Your goal is to strengthen it. You can do so with good nutrition, mild exercise, and herbal immunomodulators. Read my article on adaptogens. Best, Elaine

Oct 5, 2009 10:41 AM

Guest :

I recently went to a rheumatologist because I had been feeling aches and pains in knees, ankles, shoulders, headaches and overall fatigue/lethargy as well as cases of memory loss. Blood tests were taken and I have signs of parvovirus b19 and esptein barr virus. From reading the comments here, this seems quite serious, but obiously my rheumatologist doesn;t seem to be too concerned. I cannot even recall how I could have gotten it... I've been feeling these symptom for the past few years... I am a 35 year old female. Anyway... glad to see some support here. Thanks! Anna H.

Oct 8, 2009 2:19 PM

Guest :

I had parvovirus about five years ago, with a rash all over my body and extreme swelling and pain of pretty much all my joints - hands, feet, knees, elbows, back, etc. I could barely walk and was in bed for weeks. The extreme symptoms resolved within a month or two, but I have had mild pain and swelling in my fingers, toes, wrists, and ankles ever since, and occasionally I get extremely tired and have to sleep for 12-14 hours at a time. At this point, I am thankful that it's usually mild enough that I don't really think about it. The joint pain/swelling and fatigue only flare up when I'm stressed out, overworked, and not getting enough sleep.

The best advice I could give to anyone who's recovering from parvovirus or any autoimmune disease is easy to say and hard to do: take it easy on yourself! Get as much rest and relaxation as possible. Try not to worry and stress about things. If you can, try to avoid working full-time, especially if your job is stressful. Or try to save up and take a leave of absence from work. Move in with family or friends for a while. The one period where I made my greatest improvements was when I left my job and remained intentionally unemployed for 6 months. I slept in every day, took a great multivitamin every day, drank plenty of water, ate healthy, got daily moderate exercise, and in general just tried to relax and enjoy life. It was probably the best time of my life, and after a couple months I could feel myself getting healthier every week. Eventually my money ran out and I had to take a job, but by that point my symptoms were almost gone. Ever since then, I have continued to work but have been able to manage my symptoms, and take as many sick days as I can get away with, when I need them (which is often).

From a spiritual/Chinese Medicine perspective, I have a theory that autoimmune disease is the physical manifestation of a soul or a psyche that is railing against itself. Worry, guilt, self-blame, self-loathing .. the soul's attacking of itself lays the foundation for an autoimmune reaction where the body attacks itself. Turn your energies outward rather than inward, try to make them positive rather than negative.

Oct 9, 2009 12:10 AM

Guest :

MINOCYCLINE! I have suffered with parvo since Aug 2008. The pain in my shoulders, hands and wrists was suicide inducing. Like the rest of us with it, I too got little to no help from doctors and their various medications. Since you appear normal, people don't believe or understand what you are going through. This adds to a feeling of despair, depression, and lonliness. Then I discovered Minocycline. It is a antibiotic and it has turned my life around. I didn't realize how bad my condition was until I started to get better. I still have some pain in my wrists and hands but it is manageable. I now have energy and stamina to fight this wicked illness. 100 mg twice per day with 5 mg prednisone is what is working for me. I recommend it highly. And DO NOT consume alcohol.

Oct 14, 2009 10:52 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
I'm sorry to hear about the problems you're having. It sounds like you could be having recurrences of parvo if that's what you have. parvovirus is a viral infection. You may have something else related to your bug bite, like Lyme disease.
Hypothyroidism can cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Be sure you're on adequate thyroid replacement hormone. Best, elaine

Oct 17, 2009 1:47 PM

Kari26 :

I am a 43 year old female with similar arthritic complaints in hands,wrists,knees,feet and ankles. I also have muscular pain and stiffness upon waking. Pain is starting to wake me at night. A friend told me to read about parvo. It all started 2 1/2 years ago. After 1 year of continual testing, I was told I had primary hyperparathyroidism and eventually had one gland removed with an adenoma. My Dr. assured me that all my problems would disappear but I'm 6 months post-op and feel no better. Have seen a rhematologist as my ANA was postive but RA was negative. My ESR runs high normal to high.I know I am immune compromised as I'm plagued with allergies, asthma, and chronic sinusitis. I have a tremor in my right arm which makes handwriting difficult and sometimes feel like my body is trembling. Had my blood sugar checked and it was a bit low.I also have an itchy rash that comes and goes on my lower legs. I have 6 children and I know some of them have had fifth's disease. I have a 7 year daughter who has chronic ankle pain. I work in a radiology department of a hospital so I'm probably exposed to all sorts of things. Does this sound like parvo is a possible explanation for all my troubles?

Oct 19, 2009 11:06 AM

Elaine Moore :

Since your children had parvovirus and you were exposed, you may have it. You'd have to have a blood test to know for sure.
A positive ANA without a positive rheumatoid factor could also suggest a different connective tissue disorder. It would be good to be checked for parvo and perhaps see a rheumatologist. Best, Elaine

Nov 5, 2009 7:34 PM

Guest :

I had PV over 12 years ago. I had pain in every joint for 3 years. I had no problems for 4-5 years, and then 4 1/2 years ago my hands started hurting again, just like when I had PV. I have moved so have a new doc. I told her that it felt like PV but she assured me it couldn't come back, so that wasn't it. I have spent these past 4 1/2 years trying to figure out why I hurt in every joint, I am so tired all the time, even when I sleep for 11 hours.(I wake up alot through the night due to pain)I have been tested for Lupus, fibromyalgia, addisons....they don't know. Adding to the joint pain now, I have heavy pressure and pain in my chest, shortness of breath, irregular hearbeat; I got a rash after using sun screen; dry eyes... it feels like each time I go to the doc I add something else...she doesn't know and I am sure getting tired of me.I saw that you recommended a doc in the Austin area to someone and I wondered if you knew of a doc in Oregon/ Northern CAlifornia area that understands PV?? I am so thankful for this site, I almost started crying when I began reading... It is not just me.

Nov 6, 2009 12:08 PM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
I'm sorry I don't know of any doctors in your area, but it would be a good idea to see a rheumatologist or a good internist. You may not be having a recurrence of parvo although it could have triggered the development of a thyroid or connective tissue disorder. I wish you well, Elaine

Dec 2, 2009 10:04 AM

Elaine Moore :

Hi,
As you can tell from the comments here, human parvovirus B19 can have long-term consequences, including the development of connective tissue disorders (autoimmune rheumatological disorders). If you've been exposed to small children who may have had it recently, that would help tell if this is a new infection. The test measures antibodies, and it could be that you were infected some time ago and have now developed a recurrence or a connective tissue disorder.
Read all the comments to see what's worked for people, and consider seeing an infectious disease specialist if your neurologist isn't helpful. Best, Elaine

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Human Parvovirus B19 Infection

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