Sickle-cell anemia can be caused by a single amino-acid substitution in the Beta-chain of the hemoglobin molecule. Individuals who are homozygous for this trait will be at greater risk of anemic complications. Infection with which of the following pathogens places the individual at greater risk for an aplastic crisis, specifically?
1.Chlamydia trachomatis
2.Epstein barr virus
3.Parvovirus B19
4.Staphylococcus aureus
5.Trypanosoma cruzi
Correct answer
Parvovirus B19
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correct answer: C
The Parvovirus B19 family is known to induce aplastic crisis in individuals that are homozygous for the above HbS-/- trait. This virus is known as an ‘Erythrovirus’ because of its ability to invade red blood cell precursors in bone marrow. NOTE: The same virus is a culprit of the childhood disease, Erythema Infectiosum, and in pregnant women: hydrops fetalis.