Seroprevalence of Parvovirus B19 in Immunocompromised ICU Patients in Western Colombia

Human parvovirus B19 (B19) is a pathogen that primarily infects erythroid and other cell types due to its binding to the P globoside antigen. The seroprevalence of anti-B19 IgG varies with age, ranging from 2-15% in children to over 85% in older adults. B19 can cause a wide range of clinical manifestations, including erythema infectiosum (fifth disease) in children and pure red cell aplasia in immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with HIV, oncology or autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of IgM, IgG, and IgG avidity against B19 in immunocompromised patients hospitalized in two health institutions in Valle del Cauca, Colombia. A total of 104 immunocompromised patients hospitalized in intensive care units at two institutions in Valle del Cauca, Colombia, were enrolled in this study. Blood samples were collected and analyzed by immunoassay to determine the seroprevalence of IgM, IgG, and IgG avidity specific for B19. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the relationship between B19 seroprevalence and variables such as age, chronic non-communicable diseases, acquired immunodeficiencies, and severe anemic syndrome. The study showed a seroprevalence of 66.35% for IgG anti-B19 in immunocompromised patients. A statistically significant correlation was found between B19 seroprevalence and the presence of chronic non-communicable diseases (p = 0.000) and acquired immunodeficiencies (p = 0.018). There was also a significant association between seropositivity and severe anemic syndrome (p < 0.000) and patient age (p = 0.009). This study is the first to document B19 seroprevalence in immunocompromised patients in Colombia and highlights a significant association with specific immunosuppressive conditions, such as chronic non-communicable diseases and acquired immunodeficiencies. The findings highlight the importance of monitoring B19 infection in these vulnerable populations, particularly given its association with severe anemia and other critical conditions.