Ricerc@Sapienza

BACKGROUND: BK virus (BKV) infection represents a potentially dreadful complication after kidney transplantation (KT). When BK viremia is detected, the best therapeutic approach remains not entirely clarified. Critical elements of BK viremia treatment are immunosuppression minimization and introduction of drugs like leflunomide, everolimus, and fluoroquinolones. The study aimed to analyze the results of the BK viremia management in 2 collaborative Italian centers.

Background: BK virus (BKV)–associated nephropathy is definitely involved in allograft failure after kidney transplant. Thus, the need for an early control of viral reactivation in immunocompromised patients is well established. Determination of urinary release of decoy cells (DC) and BK viral load in plasma and urine by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) usually precedes renal biopsy. The aim of the study is to assess viral reactivation by BKV-DNA PCR and DC detection in urinary sediment using automated intelligent microscopy.