Test Directory

Clear All
Test Code
BKVLU
Test Name
BK virus, PCR, Urine
CPT Codes
87799
Included Tests
  • BKV Viral Load, IU/mL
  • BKV Viral Load, log IU/mL
Expected Turnaround Time
2 - 4 days
Clinical Utility
BK Virus may cause nephropathy in renal transplant recipients receiving immunosuppressive therapy, resulting in renal dysfunction and possible graft loss. Monitoring of BK viral load in urine and blood has been used as a surrogate marker of BKV nephropathy.
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen Type: Urine

Collection Container:  Sterile Container

Desired Specimen Volume:  10 mL

Minimum Acceptable Volume:  10 mL
Processing and Submission Instructions

Sample must be transferred to cobas PCR Urine Sample Kit by Molecular Department within 24 hours of collection
Patient Preparation
Prior to sampling, the patient should not have urinated for at least one hour. The patient must provide 10 - 50 mL of first-catch urine into a sterile container.
Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated. 
Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

  • 24 Hours
  • Urine saved in transport media: 90 days

Refrigerated

  • 24 Hours
  • Urine saved in transport media: 90 days
Causes for Rejection
  • Any specimen with leakage on the outside of the container will be rejected. Ensure the lid is tightly closed.
  • Any specimen shared with another laboratory test will be rejected.
  • Any specimen collected in an outdated collection tube will be rejected.
Methodology
Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR)
Reference Intervals

BKV Virus Not Detected
Limitations

Technical Range of Assay

200 - 1.0 x 100,000,000 IU/mL

2.30 - 8.00 log IU/mL
Performing Location
Roble Road Core Laboratory
Alternate Names
  • BKV Viral Load, Urine
  • BK Virus, Urine
  • BKV Viral Load
Testing Schedule
Routine, 2 times per week
The American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes published by HNL Lab Medicine are guidelines and are intended for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the exclusive responsibility of the billing entity. View the Terms.
© 2026 HNL Lab Medicine. All rights reserved.