What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a systematic review to evaluate current prevention and treatment strategies for BK virus associated haemorrhagic cystitis in patients undergoing haematopoietic cell transplantation.
What They Found
Out of 896 screened titles, 44 articles were included for qualitative analysis, revealing a low overall quality of evidence. There was insufficient evidence to recommend prophylactic quinolones for prevention, and limited data for established treatments for BK virus associated haemorrhagic cystitis.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients undergoing haematopoietic cell transplantation who develop BK virus associated haemorrhagic cystitis may face treatment decisions based on limited evidence. It is important for patients to discuss all available options and their current evidence base with their healthcare team.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The primary limitation was the low overall quality of evidence, with much of the included data consisting of non-randomised case series and case reports.