BK Virus: What You Need to Know

What is BK Virus?

BK virus (BKV) is a common virus that infects most people by the age of 10. It usually causes no symptoms and remains dormant in the body. However, in people with weakened immune systems, such as those who have had a kidney transplant or are taking immunosuppressant drugs, BKV can reactivate and cause serious infections.

Symptoms of BK Virus Infection

The symptoms of BKV infection can vary depending on the site of the infection. In kidney transplant recipients, BKV can cause a condition called BK virus-associated nephropathy (BKVN), which can lead to kidney damage and failure. Symptoms of BKVN can include:

• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
• High blood pressure
• Frequent urination
• Foamy urine
• Weight gain
• Fatigue

In other cases, BKV can cause infections in the urinary tract, lungs, or other organs. Symptoms of these infections can vary depending on the location of the infection.

Treatment for BK Virus Infection

There is no specific treatment for BKV infection. Treatment is supportive and aims to manage the symptoms of the infection and prevent serious complications. In kidney transplant recipients, BKVN is treated with a reduction in immunosuppressant drugs, which can help to control the virus. In some cases, antiviral medications may also be used.

Prevention of BK Virus Infection

There is no vaccine to prevent BKV infection. However, there are some things that people with weakened immune systems can do to reduce their risk of developing BKV infection, including:

• Washing their hands frequently
• Avoiding contact with people who are sick
• Getting vaccinated against other viruses, such as the flu and pneumonia
• Taking antiviral medications, such as valganciclovir or leflunomide, to prevent BKV infection

Outlook for BK Virus Infection

The outlook for BKV infection depends on the severity of the infection and the overall health of the person infected. In people with healthy immune systems, BKV infection usually causes no problems. However, in people with weakened immune systems, BKV infection can be serious and can lead to serious complications, such as kidney failure.

Bk Virus