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BK papovavirus immune complexes in glomerulonephritis.
Proceedings of the European Dialysis and Transplant Association. European Dialysis and Transplant Association
|January 1, 1980
Summary
BK virus (BKV) detection in kidney biopsies showed false positive results due to shared antigens between BKV and human immunoglobulins, not actual BKV infection.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- BK virus (BKV) is a polyomavirus that can cause kidney disease.
- Accurate detection of BKV in renal biopsies is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of BK virus (BKV) antigens in kidney biopsies using indirect immunofluorescence.
- To determine the specificity of BKV antigen detection in various glomerulonephritis subtypes.
Main Methods:
- Indirect immunofluorescence staining of 98 kidney biopsy samples for BKV antigens.
- Testing antisera from various viruses and performing serum absorption studies with immunoglobulins and BKV.
Main Results:
- Intense fluorescent staining for BKV was observed in multiple nephritis types, including lupus nephritis and IgA mesangial glomerulonephritis.
- BKV deposition correlated with immunoglobulin presence in glomeruli.
- Absorption of anti-BKV serum with human immunoglobulins eliminated glomerular fluorescence, indicating cross-reactivity.
Conclusions:
- The observed fluorescence in kidney biopsies stained with anti-BKV serum was a false positive reaction.
- This false positivity is attributed to common antigenic determinants between BKV capsid proteins and human immunoglobulins.