BK Virus (Bk Polyoma Virus) DNA - Qualitative

The BK polyomavirus (BKV) is a small double-stranded DNA virus that affects people worldwide, especially during childhood. Once you are infected with the BK virus, it lies in a dormant (latent) state in the body, where it does not cause health complications or internal damage. However, if your immune system isn't functioning correctly or is weakened, the BK polyomavirus might cause complications. It can spread into your blood and affect your kidneys, brain and overall health.  

As this virus can stay in your body for a long time, detecting it is crucial to avoid severe ailments later on. BK polyomavirus symptoms include:

• Brown or red coloured urine 
• Weakness or muscle pain 
• Pain during urination 
• Breathing difficulties 
• Cough and cold 
• Seizures 
• Blurred vision  
• Frequent urination 
• Kidney inflammation and worsened kidney function 
  
  Usually, the virus infection is asymptomatic, however, some patients may experience a mild fever. It is better to consult a doctor whenever you experience any of these symptoms.
  
  The BK polyomavirus DNA test is the primary examination for detecting the presence of the BKV virus in your body. It helps doctors analyse renal allograft biopsies and indicators of BK virus infection. This test allows medical experts to diagnose the initial symptoms of the infection via blood and urine samples. 
   

A common procedure for identifying the BK virus is the BK Viral DNA Qualitative PCR Test. It focuses on the polymerase chain reaction in the blood or urine sample. 

The BK virus causes complications among patients who have undergone hematopoietic cell transplants and kidney transplants. Hence, the BK polyomavirus DNA test is essential for the examination of transplant-associated nephropathy, which usually occurs after a kidney transplant. The condition can increase the activity of the virus as it enters the urinary tract and kidneys during the transplantation process. 

While analysing the urine sample, doctors might be able to distinguish the BK virus from the John Cunningham virus (JC virus). If the urine test is negative, the doctor might follow it with a serum test.
Certain risk factors leading to BK virus infection include: 

• A recent kidney transplant 
• Old age 
• Diabetes 
• HIV infection 
• Kidney injury or surgery 
• Organ transplant rejection
• Weakened immune system 

In some cases, the BK virus can spread through saliva and urine.  

 You might also get affected by this virus if exposed to immunosuppressive drugs like mycophenolate mofetil, cyclosporine, and tacrolimus. That is why doctors reduce the dosage of these medications to decrease the level of immunosuppression.  Your doctor might also prescribe antiviral drugs to address the infection. If you face complications while taking the medications, consult your doctor immediately. 

Apollo 24|7 provides you with a comprehensive BK polyomavirus DNA test to detect the virus.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Ravi Vemagiri Andrews, Sr Nephrologist, Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.