Parvovirus B19, rubella, Epstein–Barr, and cytomegalovirus and idiopathic thrombocytopenia in Egyptian children, single-center study

Background: Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) in children is usually a self-limiting disorder. It may follow a viral infection or immunization and is caused by an inappropriate response of the immune system. Many viruses, such as parvovirus B19, cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), and rubella, are implicated in the occurrence of ITP.Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate the occurrence of viral-associated ITP in Egyptian children.Materials and methods: Viral studies included specific immunoglobulin M for rubella, EBV, and CMV. In addition, molecular detection for parvovirus B19 was carried out.Results: Positive viral markers either by positive serology immunoglobulin M for rubella, CMV, or EBV or by a molecular study for parvovirus B19 were detected in 19 patients (38.8%). The most common viral infection was parvovirus B19 (30.6%), followed by EBV (16.3%), rubella (12.12%), and CMV (10.2%).Conclusion: We conclude that in a large proportion of children with ITP in our region, an association with markers of acute viral infections similar to those of rubella, EBV, and CMV is present. Moreover, a significant proportion of the children had occult parvovirus B19 viremia. A study of occult viral infections is recommended in children with ITP.