What is the BK virus?
The BK virus is a member of the polyomavirus family. Past infection with the BK virus is widespread, but significant consequences of infection are uncommon, with the exception of the immunocompromised and the immunosuppressed. BK virus is an abbreviation of the name of the first patient whom the virus was isolated from in 1971.
How do I know if I have BK virus?
Since BK virus can “wake up,” it is important to watch for signs of infection. Symptoms may include: Changes in the color of your urine (urine that is brown or red in color) Having any of these symptoms could be a sign of infection.
What should I know about BK virus before a kidney transplant?
Your healthcare provider will check for signs of the virus in your system. They will check both before and after receiving your kidney transplant. Since BK virus can “wake up,” it is important to watch for signs of infection. Symptoms may include: Changes in the color of your urine (urine that is brown or red in color)
What is the prognosis of BK virus infection?
Past infection with the BK virus is widespread, but significant consequences of infection are uncommon, with the exception of the immunocompromised and the immunosuppressed. BK virus is an abbreviation of the name of the first patient from whom the virus was isolated in 1971 (the patient was then 29 years old).
What do transplant patients need to know about BK virus?
BK Virus: What Transplant Patients Need to Know. When you take these medicines, your body has a higher risk for infection. You can have BK virus in your system and not be aware of it. After your transplant, the virus may become active again. This is from the anti-rejection medicines. It can damage your new kidney and cause your body to reject it.
What is the pathophysiology of BK and JC virus infection?
However, when reactivated or acquired in the immunocompromised host, BK and JC virus have been implicated in a number of human clinical disease states. BK is most commonly associated with renal involvement, such as ureteral stenosis, hemorrhagic cystitis and nephropathy.