A rapid and safe method to detect fetal parvovirus B19 infection in amniotic fluid by polymerase chain reaction: report of a case.

Molecular amplification of parvovirus B19 DNA in an amniotic fluid sample was used to confirm the etiologic agent of a case with fetal hydrops. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method used is easy and fast to perform. We have a 2-year experience on its use in clinical parvovirus B19 diagnosis. The results are available within 1 day of sampling. In addition to strict laboratory standards, the use of two different sets of PCR primers and probes confirms positive findings. Positive parvovirus PCR on amniotic fluid confirms fetal parvovirus infection in cases of fetal nonimmune hydrops. Intrauterine transfusions may be necessary in cases with severe fetal anemia.