Frequency and characterization of Parvovirus B19 infections in children with hematologic diseases: a single-center retrospective analysis

Introduction: Parvovirus B19 (PVB19) represents a clinically relevant pathogen in individuals with hematologic disorders. While infection may remain clinically silent, it can also precipitate significant hematologic complications, including severe anemia or aplastic crisis. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of PVB19 infection in pediatric patients hospitalized for hematologic diseases and to delineate the clinical profile of active infections. Material and methods: The cohort consisted of 103 children admitted to the Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantology at the Children’s University Hospital in Lublin between 2023 and 2025. Serological testing for IgM and IgG antibodies against PVB19 was performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Patients were stratified into two groups: those with active infection, defined as IgM ≥ 1.1, and those with negative IgM titers. Analyses included demographic characteristics, laboratory indices, hospitalization duration, transfusion requirements, and infection-related complications. Results: IgM seropositivity was identified in 13 patients (12.6%). The most frequent underlying hematologic disorder was hereditary spherocytosis (n = 3). Hospitalization ranged from 1 to 113 days. Eight patients required red blood cell transfusions. The most frequent clinical features included fever (n = 6) and upper respiratory tract infection (n = 3). Statistical analysis revealed differences in infection prevalence across age categories (P = 0.02), with the highest incidence in the 4–6-year age group (n = 7). Conclusions: The clinical spectrum of PVB19 infection varied from mild disease to severe hematologic complications. No correlation between sex and susceptibility to PVB19 infection was observed. The results suggest a predominance of infections in early childhood; however, confirmation requires validation in larger study cohorts.