Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis associated with a parvovirus B19 infection during pregnancy

Obstet Gynecol. 2014 Aug;124(2 Pt 2 Suppl 1):438-441. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000000385.

Abstract

Background: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is potentially fatal. Prompt diagnosis and initiation of treatment are critical for ensuring the best possible prognosis.

Case: We present a case of parvovirus B19 infection related to hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis during pregnancy. The patient experienced fever and pancytopenia. A bone marrow biopsy demonstrated hemophagocytosis and a giant proerythroblasts, which is characteristic of a parvovirus B19 infection. Viral serology for parvovirus B19 was positive. Prompt treatment was started because of the high level of certainty of viral-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, and the patient was successfully treated with prednisolone administration. She delivered a healthy newborn without any complications.

Conclusion: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis should be considered when encountering unexplained cytopenia and fever. Prednisolone was an effective treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lymphohistiocytosis, Hemophagocytic / virology*
  • Parvoviridae Infections / complications*
  • Parvovirus B19, Human / pathogenicity*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / virology*