Is Cauda Equina Involvement Related to BK Virus in Patients with Combined Immunodeficiency?

Indian J Radiol Imaging. 2025 Feb 13;35(3):474-480. doi: 10.1055/s-0045-1802329. eCollection 2025 Jul.

Abstract

The BK virus, an unenveloped double-stranded DNA virus, infects up to 90% of the population, The virus often remains dormant but can reactivate and cause illness under conditions of impaired cellular immunity. It can cause progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy and has been implicated in a variety of conditions, including encephalitis, nephritis, cystitis, and retinitis. This report explores neurological symptoms linked to the BK virus, focusing on its potential role in spinal cord pathology in patients with combined immunodeficiency by presenting and analyzing two distinct case studies. Although not commonly associated with neurological disorders, there are rarely reports of BK virus involvement in central nervous system diseases.

Keywords: BK virus; combined immunodeficiency; spinal cord.

Publication types

  • Case Reports