Molecular Detection of Parvovirus B19 in Children Presenting with Aplastic Crisis at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital

Parvovirus B19 (B19V) infection in individuals with underlying hemolytic disorders such as sickle cell disease can precipitate acute aplastic crisis (AAC), characterized by a severe transient suppression of erythropoiesis. In Nigeria, where sickle cell disease prevalence is among the highest globally, B19V-associated aplastic crisis represents a clinically significant complication. This study molecularly detected B19V in children presenting with aplastic crisis at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Kwara State, North Central Nigeria. Blood samples were collected from 60 children aged 2-15 years with confirmed hemolytic disorders who presented with acute hemoglobin drop consistent with aplastic crisis. B19V DNA was detected by nested PCR targeting the VP2 gene region. B19V IgM and IgG serology was performed simultaneously. B19V DNA was detected in 48.3% of aplastic crisis cases, with a seropositivity (IgM) rate of 51.7%, confirming acute infection in the majority of PCR-positive cases. Genotype 1a was confirmed in all sequenced samples. The absence of B19V DNA in control hemolytic disease patients without crisis confirms the etiological role of the virus in triggering aplastic events. These findings support routine B19V molecular screening during aplastic crisis workup in hematology practice in North Central Nigeria. Keywords: Parvovirus B19, aplastic crisis, sickle cell disease, nested PCR, Ilorin.