"Decoy cells" in urine.
BK virus-associated nephropathy is an emerging cause of kidney transplant loss. Tapering immunosuppressive drugs and antiviral agents are the only therapy. The diagnosis is based on immunohistochemical findings or polymerase chain reaction on renal biopsy. Phase-contrast microscopy without staining is a simple test to screen the urine of transplant recipients for BK nephritis. Any kidney transplant unit should have the ability to detect decoy cells by phase-contrast microscopy on a spot urine.
Gai
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M
Department of Internal Medicine, University of Torino, Torino, Italy. massimogai@katamail.com
Lanfranco
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G
Segoloni
G P
GP
D001739:BK Virus / Q000302:isolation & purification; D003404:Creatinine / Q000097:blood; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007668:Kidney / Q000473:pathology / Q000821:virology; D016030:Kidney Transplantation / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000473:pathology; D008858:Microscopy, Phase-Contrast; D008875:Middle Aged; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction; D027601:Polyomavirus Infections / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000652:urine; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000652:urine / Q000821:virology; D014556:Urine / Q000821:virology*
D003404:Creatinine