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Published on: June 24, 2025
Polyoma virus nephropathy, first reported case in Saudi Arabia
N A Siddiqi1, M H Hamid, A El-Tayeb
1Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, King Fahd Armed Forces Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Summary
Polyoma virus nephropathy, a cause of kidney graft failure, was diagnosed in a Saudi patient. Discontinuing immunosuppressants stabilized his renal function, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Virology
- Transplant Medicine
Background:
- Polyoma virus nephropathy (BK virus) is an emerging cause of kidney transplant graft failure.
- It is often misdiagnosed as acute rejection, complicating patient management.
- No previous cases have been reported in Saudi Arabia.
Observation:
- A Saudi gentleman, transplanted abroad, presented with persistently high creatinine and urethral stenosis.
- He received multiple treatments for presumed acute rejection without functional improvement.
- BK virus DNA was detected using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
Findings:
- Diagnosis of polyoma virus nephropathy was confirmed via PCR detection of viral DNA.
- Cessation of calcineurin inhibitors led to stabilization of the patient's renal function.
Implications:
- This case highlights the significance of considering BK virus nephropathy in transplant recipients with deteriorating renal function.
- Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and graft survival.
- This report expands the geographical understanding of BK virus nephropathy in kidney transplantation.
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