Parvovirus Infection Anything But Rare



Dear Dr. Donohue: A dear friend has a 10-year-old son who has human parvovirus infection. We were told it is very rare. Can you please give any information on this disease? -- A.D.

Dear A.D: Human parvovirus infections are quite common. In children, the infection is known as erythema infectiosum or Fifth disease. It causes the child to have a measles-like rash. Cheeks are florid red, as though someone had given the child a smart slap.

In children, Fifth disease runs its course in a matter of two weeks, doesn't make the child super-sick and does not usually leave any permanent damage.

Parvovirus infection of older children and adults runs a slightly different course. Rash is not a prominent feature, but joint pain is. The virus homes in on hands, wrists and knees. Older children and adults can take as long as two months to get over the infection.

Parvovirus infections of pregnant women can cause fetal death. Far from every pregnant woman suffers fetal loss due to infection. Less than one infected pregnant woman out of every 10 experiences death of the fetus.

Infection of those with sickle cell anemia can be major trouble. The infection can shut down bone marrow production of blood cells.

Dear Dr. Donohue: I have a brain tumor -- glioblastoma multiforme. In my case, a lot of time was wasted from the point when I first developed symptoms until the MRI brain scan that showed the tumor. What is the longevity for someone having this brain tumor? What is the best book you recommend I read to better understand my condition? -- J.C.

Dear J.C: Brain tumor symptoms are so varied that often much time elapses from the onset of first symptoms to the time the diagnosis is made. The location of the tumor causes a bewildering array of symptoms. Speech can be affected. Memory might falter. Dizziness can overwhelm a person. Headaches are common.

Glioblastoma multiforme is one of the most malignant brain tumors. It grows fast. Many patients succumb within a year to a year and a half.

If the tumor is small and can be completely removed, prognosis improves. Stereotactic radiation can often stop the tumor in its tracks. This radiation pinpoints the tumor, sparing adjacent brain tissue.

Rather than a book, call the National Brain Tumor Foundation at 800-934-2873 for current information. Canadian readers can use the foundation's Web site,


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