Human parvovirus B19 infection associated with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in a child following liver transplantation

Background/Aims: Idiopathic (autoimmune) thrombocytopenic purpura has been previously reported as a rare complication in children following parvovirus B19 infection. In the immunocompromised host who is unable to produce neutralizing antibody, an infection with parvovirus B19 can persist and cause chronic bone marrow failure. Methods: We describe a child who had undergone liver transplantation and who had idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, whose history and laboratory findings suggested parvovirus B19 infection. The infection disappeared without persistent viremia, and the thrombocytopenia responded completely to the administration of gamma globulin while the patient was undergoing chronic immunosuppression therapy. Results/Conclusion: Transplant physicians need to be aware of this complication, and parvovirus B19 infection should be included in the differential diagnosis of liver recipients presenting with severe thrombocytopenia.