Parvovirus B-19 infection mimicking drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome.

Background. Clinical manifestations of primary parvovirus Big infection var y greatly. Epidermal megalerythema is the most common feature. We report a particular form resembling a drug-induced hypersensitivity reaction. Case report. Alg-year-old man had a scarlatiniform eruption associated with multiple node enlargement, elevated liver enzymes and a abnormal white cel l count with mononucleosis and lymphopenia, similar to that observed in hyp ersensitivity reactions. Seroconversion and positive PCR search for viral D NA established the diagnosis of primary parvovirus B-19 infection. The spon taneous course was favorable with no recurrence at one month. Discussion. The clinical features and laboratory findings in this case of p arvovirus B19 infection closely resembled drug-induced hypersensitivity syn drome. The role of viral agents in the development of hypersensitivity reac tions have been suggested. It is important to look for viral infections in clinical presentations mimicking drug-induced hypersensitivity.