Important Note

BKV has emerged as an important pathogen in nephropathy in kidney transplant patients and hemorrhagic cystitis in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients. Early diagnosis of BK nephropathy has been shown to positively impact organ survival. Early diagnosis can be accomplished through a regular monitoring program for reactivation of BKV. Monitoring is effectively accomplished through the use of quantitative BKV DNA PCR of both blood and urine specimens. Quantitative PCR can also be used to track the course of infection and monitor response to treatment.