Which of the following clinical specimen for detection of BK polyomavirus by electron microscopy?
**Core Concept**
BK polyomavirus is a type of DNA virus that can cause nephropathy in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with kidney transplants. Electron microscopy is a diagnostic tool used to detect viral particles in clinical specimens.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **C. Urine**. BK polyomavirus is shed in the urine of infected individuals, and electron microscopy can detect the viral particles in urine specimens. This is because the virus replicates in the renal tubular cells and is excreted in the urine. The viral particles are typically observed as 45-50 nm icosahedral structures with a central core and a surrounding capsid.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Blood is not the primary specimen for detecting BK polyomavirus by electron microscopy, as the virus is not typically found in the bloodstream.
* **Option B:** Cerebrospinal fluid is not commonly used for detecting BK polyomavirus, as the virus is primarily associated with renal disease, not central nervous system infections.
* **Option D:** Saliva is not a commonly used specimen for detecting BK polyomavirus, as the virus is not typically shed in the saliva of infected individuals.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
BK polyomavirus nephropathy is a significant complication of kidney transplantation, and detection of the virus in urine specimens by electron microscopy can help diagnose this condition.
**Correct Answer:** C. Urine