Prevalence of BK Virus among Iranian Renal Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BK virus (BKV) reactivation is a major challenge for renal transplant recipients. The purpose of this study was to summarize current knowledge on the status of BKV in Iranian renal transplant recipients.

Specific terms, including “BKV” and “Renal Transplantation” were used to search the online databases. I2 and Cochran’s Q-value were tested for heterogeneity. The incidence rate was determined at 95% confidence interval. Publication bias was also investigated using funnel plot, the Egger’s and Begg’s statics.

Twelve studies were included in the study. The random model's overall evidence rate was 0.347 (CI 95%, 0.225-0.493, p-value=0.04).

In Iran, the estimated prevalence of BKV among renal transplant recipients is 34.7% (~10-60%), which is higher than the rate reported from other parts of the world. Therefore, it is recommended to screen organ donors for BKV in Iran.