BK virus: Current understanding of pathogenicity and clinical disease in transplantation

Rev Med Virol. 2019 Jul;29(4):e2044. doi: 10.1002/rmv.2044. Epub 2019 Apr 8.

Abstract

BK polyomavirus (BKV) is an important cause of graft loss in renal transplant recipients that continues to pose a significant challenge to clinicians due to its frequently unpredictable onset, persistence, and the lack of effective antiviral agents or prevention strategies. This review covers our current understanding of epidemiology, viral transmission and disease progression, and treatment and prevention strategies that have been used to manage this disease.

Keywords: BK virus; transplant virology; transplantation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • BK Virus / growth & development
  • BK Virus / pathogenicity*
  • Disease Progression
  • Disease Transmission, Infectious
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Kidney Transplantation*
  • Polyomavirus Infections / epidemiology
  • Polyomavirus Infections / pathology*
  • Polyomavirus Infections / transmission
  • Polyomavirus Infections / virology

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents