Establishment of functional B cell memory against parvovirus B19 capsid proteins may be associated with resolution of persistent infection.

Parvovirus B19 (B19) infection can occur during acute lymphoblastic leukemia and persistent viral infection can occur despite intravenous immunoglobulin administration. Here, evidence is presented that resolution of persistent B19 infection in an acute lymphoblastic leukemia patient may be associated with the simultaneous strengthening of antigen-specific B cell memory against the B19 capsid protein VP2 and diminution in the memory response against the B19 non-structural protein 1 (NS1). Determination of antigen-specific B cell memory status may enhance the serological and molecular analyses of persistent B19 infection.