The Detection of BK Virus by Quantitative PCR of Plasma as Screening Test to Identify Renal Transplant Recipients at Risk of BK Virus Nephropathy

Abstract

Background: BK virus infection and nephritis are increasing problems in renal transplant recipients (RTRs). Increasing prevalence of this infection and nephritis have been correlated with newer immunosuppressive agent in recent years. Routine post-transplant screening for BK viremia prior to the occurrence of nephritis and the reduction in immunosuppressive therapy for subjects with BKV infection appear to be attractive objectives. Objectives: This study performed to screening for BK virus in blood to identify RTRs at risk of development BKV associated nephritis (BKVN) .