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Tests and diagnosis
By Mayo Clinic staffIf a rash is present, your doctor may be able to make a diagnosis by examination. About half of adults are immune to parvovirus infection, most likely because of a previous, unnoticed, childhood infection.
If you're pregnant or if you're an adult with a compromised immune system, blood tests can help determine if you're immune to the infection or if you've recently become infected. The blood tests commonly used are tests for antibodies that are specific for parvovirus infection. Subsequent action depends on test results:
- If the blood tests indicate immunity, you don't need to be concerned. You can't be reinfected.
- If the tests confirm evidence of recent parvovirus infection, you may need additional testing to determine what, if any, complications — such as anemia — need treatment.
- If you're pregnant and you have parvovirus infection, your doctor may perform additional tests, such as ultrasound and possibly additional blood tests, to watch for potential fetal complications.
