Parvovirus B19: Pre-natal diagnosis of congenital Parvovirus B19 infection

Description of tests

Parvovirus B19 can be detected by PCR. 

Purpose of tests

To detect parvovirus B19 in amniotic fluid in a pregnant woman to diagnose possible congenital parvovirus infection in the foetus.

Criteria for performing this test  

• The reference centre performs PCR parvovirus B19 on amniotic fluid from pregnant patients in whom the fetus shows abnormalities compatible with congenital parvovirus infection and/or in proven maternal infection with parvovirus B19 during pregnancy.
• Application forms must be completed in full.

Instructions for samples and transport

Amniotic fluid: 2 -3 ml, stored at 4°C; shipped at room temperature.

Unacceptable requests

• Incomplete request form
• Sample not suitable for analysis
• Incorrect transport/storage
• Insufficient volume

Turn around time  

1 to 5 working days (contact the laboratory in case of emergency)

Reporting of test results 

The laboratory reports the results and comments and sends it to the requesting laboratory by mail or fax