Cost-efficient screening for BK virus in pediatric kidney transplantation: a single-center experience and review of the literature

Pediatr Transplant. 2010 Aug;14(5):589-95. doi: 10.1111/j.1399-3046.2010.01318.x. Epub 2010 Mar 28.

Abstract

BKVNP is an increasingly recognized cause of graft dysfunction and loss in kidney transplant recipients. Protocols for BKV screening and for the diagnosis of BKVNP are still evolving. PCR-based BKV detection became available at our institution in 2007, when we began using it according to published guidelines. We subsequently reviewed our experience with urine and plasma BKV PCR testing in our pediatric kidney transplant recipient population. We found rates of viruria, viremia, and BKVNP that were similar to the published literature. We also conducted a cost analysis suggesting that urine PCR testing, as used by us, is not cost efficient in the detection of BKV. We conclude that plasma only-based PCR testing for BKV may be sufficient in most clinical settings.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • BK Virus*
  • Child
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis
  • Humans
  • Kidney Diseases / economics
  • Kidney Diseases / virology*
  • Kidney Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Mass Screening
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Polyomavirus Infections / diagnosis*
  • Polyomavirus Infections / economics
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Tumor Virus Infections / diagnosis*
  • Tumor Virus Infections / economics