A study on the relationship between anemia and human parvovirus B19 viremia in dialysis patients

Introduction: Parvovirus B19 is recognized as a possible cause of chronic anemia in patients with end- stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis. This can result from reduced erythropoietin secretion, red blood cell lifespan or immune suppression. Patients with chronic anemia or pancytopenia are required to be evaluated for parvovirus B19 viremia as part of their workup. In this study, we assessed parvovirus B19 viremia and its relationship with anemia in ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis. Methods: A total of 127 ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis were enrolled for this study. The complete blood count was obtained from all participants. Parvovirus B19 viremia was detected through nested PCR targeting the NS1 gene. Results: Of the studied individuals, 86 (67.7%) were anemic and parvovirus B19 viremia was detected in 21 (16.5%) patients. No significant differences were found between anemic and non-anemic patients regarding age, sex, duration of dialysis, and parvovirus B19 viremia. Conclusion: In our study, parvovirus B19 viremia was not associated with anemia in ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis. Further large-scale studies are required to better clarify the role of parvovirus B19 in ESRD patients with anemia.