Clinical background:
This is a PCR assay used to detect BK virus DNA. It is used in the diagnosis of BK associated nephropathy and haemorrhagic cystitis.
BK Virus is an important cause of nephropathy in recipients of kidney transplants; diagnosis is best made on a blood sample, with levels over 10000 copies/ml being associated with the diagnosis, however a biopsy is required for confirmation.
BK associated haemorrhagic cystitis is seen following bone marrow transplant; diagnosis is best made on a urine sample. Levels are variable but can be extremely high.
Specimen container paediatric:
EDTA blood, urine in plain universal container.
Specimen container adult:
EDTA blood, urine in plain universal container.
Minimum volume paediatric:
- 1ml EDTA blood
- 5ml Urine
Minimum volume adult:
- 5ml EDTA blood
- 5ml Urine
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add on test:
N/A
Quality assurance:
Sample referred to Reference Laboratory
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable
Reference ranges:
None available
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2 to 8 deg C
Referenced Documents:
N/A
Other info:
Sample referred to Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust