BK transplant nephropathy successfully, treated with cidofovir
Date
2003
Authors
Keller, L.
Peh, C.
Nolan, J.
Bannister, K.
Clarkson, A.
Faull, R.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation, 2003; 18(5):1013-1014
Statement of Responsibility
Lisa S. Keller, Chen Au Peh, James Nolan, Kym M. Bannister, Anthony R. Clarkson and Randall J. Faull
Conference Name
Abstract
BK-virus-induced interstitial nephritis (BK nephropathy) is a recently recognized condition affecting renal allografts that may lead to graft failure [1]. BK-virus infection is endemic worldwide with seroprevalence rates in normal adults of 60–80% [1]. Risk factors for BK nephropathy include high levels of immunosuppression, particularly involving tacrolimus [2]. There is no established treatment other than reduction of immunosuppression to aid viral clearance, which risks acute irreversible rejection [3]. There are in vitro data showing that cidofovir inhibits BK virus replication, but there are no studies in renal transplant recipients [4]. We report a case of BK nephropathy successfully treated with intravenous cidofovir and a modest reduction in immunosuppression.