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Updated: May 15, 2026

Measurement of BK-polyomavirus Non-Coding Control Region Driven Transcriptional Activity Via Flow Cytometry
Published on: July 13, 2019
BK polyoma virus nephropathy in the native kidney
Shree G Sharma1, Volker Nickeleit, Leal C Herlitz
1Department of Pathology, ColumbiaUniversity Medical Center, New York, NY, USA. drshreegopal@gmail.com
Polyoma virus nephropathy (PVN) in native kidneys is under-recognized in immunocompromised patients. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for better outcomes in BK polyoma virus infections.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- BK polyoma virus nephropathy (PVN) is a known cause of kidney transplant dysfunction.
- PVN in native kidneys is often under-recognized, despite its potential for severe renal damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the pathological features, risk factors, and outcomes of PVN in native kidneys.
- To highlight the importance of early diagnosis in immunocompromised individuals.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of eight native kidney PVN cases.
- Review of patient demographics, clinical presentation, immunosuppression status, pathology, viral markers, and treatment.
- Assessment of outcomes including renal function and survival.
Main Results:
- Eight immunocompromised males (age 16-73) with hematologic malignancies, transplants, or other conditions presented with acute kidney injury.
- Pathology confirmed BK PVN with positive SV40 T antigen staining; some cases had JCV co-infection or CLL infiltration.
- Despite treatment, six patients experienced worsening renal function, and three died, indicating poor outcomes linked to advanced disease and persistent immunosuppression.
Conclusions:
- A high index of suspicion for PVN is essential in immunocompromised patients presenting with acute kidney injury.
- Early diagnosis and prompt antiviral therapy may improve outcomes for native kidney PVN.
- Persistent immunosuppression and advanced disease stage are associated with unfavorable prognoses.
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