Cutaneous parvovirus infections: "gloves and socks" syndrome

Background: Among the viral purpuric cutaneous manifestations, papular-purpuric "gloves and socks" eruptions have been lately described. The responsibility of parvovirus B19 infection has been suspected.

Methods: We report two pediatric cases of papular-purpuric eruption of the extremities with a seroconversion for the parvovirus B19. One patient, a twelve-year old girl, also had cellulitic plaques.

Conclusions: Parvovirus B19 is known for causing various cutaneous manifestations, among which erythema infectiosum as the most classical. A papular-purpuric "gloves and socks" syndrome may be individualised. Previously described in adults, this type of eruption may be prevalent in childhood.