BK virus encephalitis and end‐stage renal disease in a child with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Abstract BK virus encephalitis after HSCT is uncommon. Several reports of native kidney BKVN in patients with HSCT, hematologic malignancies, human immunodeficiency virus infection, and non‐renal solid organ transplantation have been described. However, an uncommon combination of BK encephalitis and ESRD of native kidneys secondary to BK virus in a child with HSCT has not been described. We report a 10‐year‐old boy who presented with a gradually rising serum creatinine during treatment for severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia, which he developed 9 months after receiving an allogeneic HSCT for aplastic anemia. There was no proteinuria or hematuria present. Serum BK virus load was 5 × 10 6 copies/mL. A renal biopsy showed evidence of BKVN. He developed fever, seizures, and confusion, and the (CSF) showed significant presence of the BK virus (1 × 10 6 copies/mL) along with biochemical evidence of viral encephalitis. Cerebrospinal fluid cultures were negative. Despite significant clinical symptoms and presence of BK virus in CSF, the magnetic resonance brain imaging findings were minimal. With reduction of immunosuppression, there was resolution of BK encephalitis but BKVN remained resistant to multiple anti‐BK virus agents, including leflunomide and cidofovir. He eventually became dialysis‐dependent and, 6 years later, received a renal transplant from his mother. This case illustrates that BK virus in severely immunocompromised HSCT recipient may lead to BK encephalitis and BKVN of native kidneys, even without hemorrhagic cystitis, leading to ESRD. Knowledge of such is important for appropriate timely evaluation and management.