TEST ID PBKQN BK Virus DNA Detection and Quantification, Plasma
Reporting Name
BKV DNA Detect/Quant, PSpecimen Type
Plasma EDTAShipping Instructions
1. Ship specimen frozen on dry ice only.
2. If shipment will be delayed for more than 24 hours, freeze plasma at -20 to -80° C (up to 84 days) until shipment on dry ice.
Specimen Required
Supplies: Sarstedt Aliquot Tube, 5 mL (T914)
Collection Container/Tube: Lavender top (EDTA)
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 1.5 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Centrifuge blood collection tube and aliquot into a plastic vial per manufacturer's instructions (eg, centrifuge within 2 hours of collection for BD Vacutainer tubes).
2. Freeze aliquoted plasma for shipment.
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
Plasma EDTA | Frozen (preferred) | 84 days |
Refrigerated | 6 days |
Method Name
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Reject Due To
Gross hemolysis | Reject |
Gross lipemia | OK |
Gross icterus | OK |
Reference Values
Undetected
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Saturday
Report Available
1 to 3 daysSpecimen Retention Time
30 daysPerforming Laboratory

CPT Code Information
87799
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send 1 of the following forms with the specimen:
-General Request (T239)
-Microbiology Test Request (T244)
-Renal Diagnostics Test Request (T830)
Useful For
Detection and serial monitoring of BK virus-associated nephropathy in kidney transplant recipients using plasma specimens
Detection and serial monitoring of BK virus-associated hemorrhagic cystitis in organ transplant recipients
Highlights
This assay detects and quantifies the level of BK virus (BKV) DNA present in the plasma of kidney transplant recipients who are at risk of developing BKV-associated nephropathy leading to decreasing kidney function and eventual kidney failure. The assay is calibrated to the First World Health Organization International Standard for BKV DNA.