Primary human parvovirus B19 infection in an HIV infected patient on antiretroviral therapy.

INTRODUCTION: Persons with HIV infection frequently present with anaemia from different causes, including use of antiretroviral therapy (typically zidovudine), iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, opportunistic infections (such as mycobacterial and fungal infections), chronic disease, AIDS-associated malignancies, autoimmune haemolysis, and direct effects of HIV infection itself. Persistent infection with Parvovirus B19 (B19) is an important treatable cause of anaemia in HIV-infected patients.

CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of anaemia in HIV positive patient who did not respond to change of drug therapy and nutritional supplements. Bone marrow biopsy suggested parvo virus infection.

CONCLUSIONS: Chronic anaemia due to Parvo virus B19 infection is a treatable cause. Human Parvo virus B19 infection is a diagnosis of exclusion in patients who are started on antiretroviral therapy develop anaemia and later not responding to empirical management. Chronic anaemia requiring recurrent transfusions in HIV positive patient Parvo virus infection should be suspected and evaluated.