The JC/BK Virus DNA detection by PCR test is a diagnostic tool that looks for the presence of JC and BK viruses in the plasma. These are human polyomaviruses, typically acquired during childhood, and remain latent in the body, only causing diseases when the immune system is compromised.
The JC virus (JCV) is known to cause progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare and often fatal brain disorder in people with severely weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or those on immunosuppressive therapies. The BK virus (BKV), meanwhile, is linked with kidney disease and hemorrhagic cystitis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals like kidney and bone marrow transplant recipients.
The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test is a highly specific and sensitive technique that amplifies the DNA of the viruses if present in the plasma sample. This test plays a crucial role in confirming the diagnosis of diseases caused by these viruses.
Test NameJC/BK Virus - DNA Detection by PCR - Plasma
Sample TypeBlood
Preparations RequiredNo specific preparation is required for this test.
Report Time2 Days
What does a positive result indicate?
A positive result indicates the detection of JC or BK virus DNA in your plasma, suggesting an active infection. These findings are generally interpreted along with your symptoms and other clinical information.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means no JC or BK virus DNA was found in your plasma. However, this doesn't completely rule out an infection, particularly if the test was done early in the course of the disease or if the viral load is low.
Home Sample Collection Process
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Book your convenient slot
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Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
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Reporting of the sample at lab
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Download Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
No, fasting is not required for this test.
This test is typically ordered if you're experiencing symptoms suggestive of diseases caused by these viruses, particularly if you have a weakened immune system.
A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle.
As the test involves a blood draw, the most important precaution is to ensure that the site of the needle insertion is clean to prevent any infection.
Timing of sample collection can affect the test results. If the sample is taken too early or too late in the disease course, it may fail to detect the viral DNA.
If symptoms persist despite a negative test result, your doctor may order additional tests to identify the cause of your symptoms. These could include tests for other infections or diseases with similar symptoms.
An infectious disease specialist or a nephrologist (for BK virus-related issues) or a neurologist (for JC virus-related issues) should be consulted if test results are abnormal.
Yes, people with weakened immune systems like those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, and those on immunosuppressive therapies are at an elevated risk of diseases caused by these viruses.
Currently, no vaccine is available to prevent these viral infections. The best defense is to maintain a healthy immune system and regular monitoring for those with a weakened immune system.
Treatment primarily involves enhancing the immune system. For organ transplant recipients, the dose of immunosuppressive drugs may need adjustment. Antiviral drugs may also be used in certain cases.
Yes. Once an infection is confirmed, the test can help monitor disease progression and treatment response.
Yes, most individuals have been exposed to these viruses during their life. They remain latent in the body, causing disease only when the immune system is compromised.
Blood draw is generally a safe procedure. However, minor complications like bruising, infection, or fainting can occur.
Yes, you should be able to return to your regular activities immediately after the blood sample is drawn.
A positive result means that the JC or BK virus is present in your body, but it doesn't necessarily mean you have a specific disease. These viruses can remain in the body without causing illness. However, if you're experiencing symptoms and your doctor ordered this test, a positive result could indicate a disease linked to these viruses.
Generally, this test requires a doctor's order, as it's crucial to interpret the results in the context of your overall health and other test results.
Typically, the results are available within 3-5 days, but this may vary depending on the laboratory.
The frequency of the test depends on your symptoms, health condition, and the doctor's judgement. If you're an organ transplant recipient or have a condition that compromises your immune system, regular monitoring may be necessary.
