Testing should also be considered in cases of haemorrhagic cystitis in hematopoietic cell transplant patients (differential diagnosis - adenovirus).
If BK virus is suspected post transplantation, send an EDTA blood sample to Microbiology for BK viral load.
Sample type
Plasma (CSF and urine can be processed but have not been verified by the laboratory)
Specimen requirements
Blood in EDTA tube
Minimum volume
0.5ml
Frequency of test
Monday to Friday
Turnaround time
BK viral load - 3 working days
What to request on EPR
BK virus (BKV) viral load PCR, blood
