title: BK virus in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients.
abstract: BK virus has become a serious issue in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients, commonly manifesting as hemorrhagic cystitis, which can last from a matter of days to months and, if severe enough, may result in death. Patients with BK virus-associated hemorrhagic cystitis often experience poor quality of life, severe pain and discomfort, and prolonged hospitalizations. Despite numerous advances in stem cell transplantation methods, BK virus-associated hemorrhagic cystitis is difficult to control and treatment options are few. This article provides an overview of BK virus along with risk factors, current treatment modalities, and nursing considerations.
authors.affiliation: Stem Cell Transplant Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pennsylvania, USA. fedeam2@upmc.edu
authors.forename: Amy
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Federoff
mesh_terms: D001739:BK Virus / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D003556:Cystitis / Q000451:nursing / Q000821:virology; D006086:Graft vs Host Disease; D018380:Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation; D006417:Hematuria / Q000821:virology; D006801:Humans; D019172:Transplantation Conditioning; D019562:Viral Load