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DNA Labs India

BK Virus PCR Qualitative Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

BK Virus PCR Qualitative Test

Short Name: BK Virus PCR Qualitative

Also known as: BK Virus DNA PCR, Polyomavirus BK PCR Test, BK Virus Detection Test

BK Virus PCR Qualitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹5,000. Uses Real Time PCR on Plasma or Urine samples. Results in Results are typically available within 2-3 days after sample receipt.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Molecular Diagnostics🏠 Home Collection

✍️ Written By

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Dr Pasupathy Arumugam

Dr Pasupathy Arumugam

Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521

Last reviewed: September 7, 2026

Overview

To qualitatively detect BK virus DNA in plasma or urine for diagnosis of BK virus infection, particularly in immunocompromised patients like organ transplant recipients, to prevent complications such as nephropathy.

Test Code
207
Price
₹5,000
Sample Type
Plasma or Urine
Result Time
Results are typically available within 2-3 days after sample receipt.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Real Time PCR
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation required. Ensure proper identification and sample labeling.

Method: Venipuncture for plasma; Clean catch midstream for urine

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

For plasma: Collect 3 mL blood in lavender top EDTA tube via venipuncture. For urine: Collect 15 mL midstream urine in a sterile screw capped container.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply pressure to venipuncture site for plasma. Mix urine sample gently. Store samples as per stability guidelines.

Timeline: Results are typically available within 2-3 days after sample receipt.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No specific preparation needed. Inform your doctor about any medications or immune status.
2
During the Test:Sample collection takes a few minutes. For blood draw, a needle is inserted into a vein; for urine, you provide a midstream sample.
3
After the Test:Resume normal activities. Mild bruising may occur at blood draw site.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To qualitatively detect BK virus DNA in plasma or urine for diagnosis of BK virus infection, particularly in immunocompromised patients like organ transplant recipients, to prevent complications such as nephropathy.

How to Prepare

  • Verify patient identity and test order
  • Use aseptic technique
  • Collect plasma in EDTA tube, avoid hemolysis
  • Collect urine in sterile container, avoid contamination
  • Label samples correctly with patient details
  • Transport samples refrigerated or frozen as specified

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521

"As an infectious disease specialist, I recommend BK virus testing for transplant patients with unexplained graft dysfunction. Early detection allows for immunosuppression adjustment to prevent progression to graft loss."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypePlasma or Urine
Sample Volume3 mL plasma (min 2 mL) or 15 mL urine (min 5 mL)
ContainerLavender top (EDTA) tube for plasma; sterile screw capped container for urine
Collection MethodVenipuncture for plasma; Clean catch midstream for urine

Sample Stability

Room TemperatureNot Applicable
Refrigerator (2-8°C)72 hours
Frozen (-20°C)1 week
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Sample received at room temperature beyond 72 hours
  • Plasma sample hemolyzed or clotted
  • Urine sample not sterile or insufficient volume
  • Unlabeled or mislabeled samples

Understanding Your Results

The BK Virus PCR Qualitative Test results indicate the presence or absence of BK virus DNA. Interpretation should be correlated with clinical symptoms and patient history.
📊

Positive

BK virus DNA detected. Indicates active infection or reactivation. Consult a physician for further evaluation and management.

📊

Negative

BK virus DNA not detected. No evidence of infection at the time of testing. Repeat if clinical suspicion remains high.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult your doctor if you experience symptoms such as fever, flank pain, blood in urine, or if you are a transplant recipient with declining organ function, regardless of test results.

Limitations

  • ⚠Qualitative test only, does not quantify viral load
  • ⚠Cannot distinguish between active infection and latent virus
  • ⚠False negatives possible in very early infection or low viral shedding

Risks & Considerations

  • ●Minor bruising or soreness at venipuncture site
  • ●Rare risk of infection from blood draw
  • ●No significant risks from urine collection

Interfering Factors

  • ●Sample contamination
  • ●Hemolyzed plasma samples
  • ●Improper sample storage
  • ●Use of inappropriate anticoagulant

Compare With Similar Tests

TestBK Virus PCR Qualitative TestBK Virus PCR Quantitative TestUrine Culture
ComparisonBK Virus PCR Qualitative Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BK Virus PCR Qualitative Test?
It is a test that uses polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect the presence of BK virus DNA in blood or urine samples, helping diagnose infections, especially in transplant patients.
Who should get this test?
Individuals who have had organ transplants, particularly kidney transplants, or those with symptoms like unexplained graft dysfunction, hemorrhagic cystitis, or rising creatinine levels.
How is the sample collected?
For plasma, blood is drawn into an EDTA tube via venipuncture. For urine, a midstream sample is collected in a sterile container.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of BK virus DNA, suggesting an active infection or reactivation. Consult your doctor for management.
What is the turnaround time for results?
Results are usually available within 2-3 days after the sample reaches the lab.
Is the test covered by insurance?
It may be covered if deemed medically necessary. Check with your insurance provider for details.
Can I get this test at home?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection in many cities across India for this test.
What are the risks of the test?
The risks are minimal, such as slight bruising from blood draw or minor discomfort. No major risks associated.
How accurate is the test?
The PCR qualitative test is highly accurate with high sensitivity and specificity for detecting BK virus DNA.
What should I do if I test positive?
If positive, consult your healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and possible treatment adjustments, especially if you are a transplant recipient.
Is fasting required for this test?
No, fasting is not required. No special preparation is needed before sample collection.
How does this test differ from a quantitative PCR test?
The qualitative test detects the presence or absence of the virus, while the quantitative test measures the viral load, which can help in monitoring infection severity.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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Reference Laboratory Services

We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.

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Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

✓ DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.

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