The synergistic tapestry: unraveling the interplay of parvovirus B19 with other viruses.
Parvovirus (B19V) is a compact, non-enveloped, spherical virus with a single-stranded DNA genome. In immunocompetent individuals, parvovirus B19V infection is typically asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic. However, in patients with compromised immune systems, it can lead to severe anemia in patients with compromised immune systems; renal transplant recipients taking immunosuppressive therapies often experience B19-induced anemia and red cell aplasia. The coinfections of hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, cytomegalovirus (CMV), HIV, and BK virus with B19V have been reportedly investigated. This review explores the interactions of B19V with other viral pathogens and provide insight into its intricate interplay in various clinical scenarios. In hepatitis B virus, B19 has been implicated in liver inflammation and disease, and, in hepatitis C virus, B19 correlates with chronic hepatitis, which may affect the progression of the disease. Immunocompromised individuals, particularly, patients with HIV and renal transplant recipients, often experience B19-induced anemia, which can be complicated by coinfection with CMV and BK. Pregnant women having coinfections of parvovirus B19 with CMV are at risk for fetal developmental complications. Its coexistence with Epstein-Barr virus can result in bone marrow failure. Notably, fatal cases of B19 and influenza A/H1N1 and more recent cases of coinfection with SARS-CoV-2, have been reported, highlighting the complex interactions between B19V and other viral pathogens.