BK Virus, Quantitative -PCR

BK virus is named after the first patient from whom the virus was isolated. BK virus infection usually occurs in childhood but the virus remains in the body and gets activated in patients who are on medications to suppress the immune response eg. in patients who have undergone transplants. BK virus affects the kidneys causing nephritis & damages the transplanted kidney. This test quantitates the BK virus levels in the body.