Parvo Virus IgG

Parvovirus IgG are antibodies produced against parvovirus B19. Their presence on a blood test indicates past infection and usually long-term immunity, meaning the person is unlikely to have or transmit an acute infection. IgG appears weeks after exposure and persists for years. For pregnant women, a positive IgG generally means reduced risk of fetal complications; acute infection is indicated by IgM.

Parvovirus B19 IgG antibodies typically appear weeks after infection and remain detectable for many years, often lifelong, indicating past exposure and usually lasting immunity. IgG levels may gradually decline but generally persist. For recent infection, IgM is the marker (positive for weeks to a few months). Always interpret serology with clinical context, especially in pregnancy or immunocompromised patients.

IgM indicates a recent or acute parvovirus infection — it appears early (around 1 to 2 weeks after exposure) and usually declines after a few months. IgG appears later, signals past infection and long-term immunity, and typically persists for years or lifelong. In pregnancy, a positive IgM suggests recent infection with fetal risk, while IgG indicates prior exposure and likely protection.

A positive parvovirus test means parvovirus B19 infection has been detected. Interpretation depends on the test: PCR or IgM suggests current/acute infection; IgG alone indicates past exposure and immunity. Parvovirus B19 can cause "fifth disease" in children, joint pain in adults, aplastic crisis in people with hemolytic disorders, and fetal risk in pregnancy. Discuss results and next steps with your healthcare provider.

Parvovirus can be mild or serious depending on type and host. Human parvovirus B19 often causes a mild childhood rash but may cause severe complications in pregnancy (fetal hydrops), immunocompromised people, or those with blood disorders. Canine parvovirus is frequently severe, producing vomiting, bloody diarrhea, dehydration and can be fatal in puppies without prompt veterinary care and supportive treatment.

IgM is the first antibody produced during an acute infection: it's pentameric, appears early, is short-lived, and strongly activates complement—its presence suggests recent exposure. IgG appears later, is monomeric, more abundant and longer-lived, provides lasting immunity and memory, has higher affinity, mediates opsonization, and can cross the placenta to protect the fetus.