In Parvovirus B19-associated arthropathy, which joints are most commonly involved?

In Parvovirus B19-associated arthropathy, which joints are most commonly involved?

• A. Large weight-bearing joints
• B. Small joints including DIP, PIP, MCP and wrists/elbows
• C. Only ankles
• D. Thoracic spine joints

Answer: (D)

Parvovirus B19-related arthritis in adults most often involves the small joints of the hands, particularly the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints, and commonly includes the wrists. The pattern is usually symmetric and can resemble rheumatoid arthritis, though it is typically self-limited. Involvement of axial sites like thoracic spine joints is not a characteristic feature of this viral arthritis; the condition tends to spare the spine and target peripheral small joints instead. Therefore, the hallmark distribution to recognize is the small joints of the hands and wrists, with other joints like large weight-bearing joints being less consistently affected.

Parvovirus B19-related arthritis in adults most often involves the small joints of the hands, particularly the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints, and commonly includes the wrists. The pattern is usually symmetric and can resemble rheumatoid arthritis, though it is typically self-limited. Involvement of axial sites like thoracic spine joints is not a characteristic feature of this viral arthritis; the condition tends to spare the spine and target peripheral small joints instead. Therefore, the hallmark distribution to recognize is the small joints of the hands and wrists, with other joints like large weight-bearing joints being less consistently affected.