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BK Virus Nephritis after Renal Transplantation

Division of Nephrology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Correspondence: Dr. Sundaram Hariharan, Division of Nephrology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 9200 West Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53226. Phone: 414-805-9050; Fax: 414-805-9059; E-mail: sharihar{at}mcw.edu

BK virus nephritis is an increasing problem and is posing a threat to improving renal transplant graft survival. The pathogenesis of this condition remains to be investigated. Higher prevalence of BK virus infection in recent years has been correlated with declining acute rejection rates and the use of potent immunosuppressive agents. Patients with this infection usually have asymptomatic viremia and/or nephritis with or without worsening of renal function. The diagnosis of this disease is based on detecting the virus or its effects in urine, blood, and renal tissue. In the past, approximately 30 to 60% of patients with BK virus nephritis developed graft failure. In recent years, the combination of early detection, prompt diagnosis, and therapies including preventive measures have resulted in better outcomes.