Parvovirus antibody studies are of limited value, since a large proportion of the population has had parvovirus infection. However molecular diagnostic tests are available to confirm the presence of parvovirus. Also, typical inclusions may be detected in early erythroid precursors in the bone marrow. Sometimes intravenous immunoglobulin treatment is necessary to attempt to resolve the parvovirus infection. Some patients may have vaso-occlusive crises and aseptic necrosis of the femoral head.
Patients have a normal life expectancy.
Inform patients that the disease has a benign course during pregnancy. Pregnancy complications are rare. Some aspects of the pathophysiology of homozygous Hb CC erythrocytes. Retinopathy in haemoglobin C trait. Dyserythropoiesis in homozygous haemoglobin C disease.