Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Nov 11, 2026 14 minutes ago
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are overwhelmingly associated with bacteria, but a new scientific review reveals that several viruses may also cause urinary infections, sometimes triggering serious bladder inflammation, bleeding, and kidney damage.
A new scientific review identifies several viruses associated with urinary tract infections, highlighting potential risks of
bladder inflammation and kidney damage
Researchers from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia; Slovak Medical University, Slovakia; and Ohio State University Global One Health, Ethiopia, examined evidence involving six viruses linked to urinary complications.
The review challenges the longstanding assumption that healthy urine is sterile and highlights an overlooked threat, particularly for transplant recipients and people with weakened immune systems.
Six Viruses Linked to Urinary Problems
The researchers investigated adenoviruses, BK polyomavirus, cytomegalovirus (CMV), SARS-CoV-2, Zika virus, and West Nile virus.
Five have been associated with urinary infections or related complications, although the strength of evidence varies. West Nile virus has been detected in urine without convincing evidence of direct urinary tract damage.
Importantly, finding viral genetic material in urine does not necessarily mean someone has an active infection.
BK Virus Can Threaten Transplanted Kidneys
BK virus emerged as a particularly significant concern. Up to 90% of adults show evidence of previous exposure, with the virus typically remaining dormant.
However, approximately 20% of healthy individuals may shed the virus in urine without experiencing symptoms.
When immunity weakens, particularly following transplantation, viral reactivation can cause hemorrhagic cystitis, a painful condition involving bladder inflammation and bleeding.
BK virus can also damage transplanted kidneys, potentially causing progressive kidney dysfunction and graft failure.
Adenoviruses Can Trigger Severe Bladder Inflammation
Adenoviruses, commonly associated with respiratory infections, can also attack urinary tissues.
One investigation identified adenoviruses in 11 of 25 patients experiencing acute hemorrhagic cystitis.
Certain adenovirus types have additionally been associated with urethritis, producing painful urination and inflammation.
COVID-19, CMV, and Zika Show Unexpected Effects
The review also highlighted urinary complications associated with COVID-19, including increased urinary frequency, blood in urine, and newly developing bladder symptoms.
Researchers suggest inflammatory molecules released during infection may contribute to cytokine cystitis, causing bladder irritation.
CMV can produce bladder inflammation and kidney complications, particularly among immunocompromised patients.
Zika virus can infect kidney cells and persist in urine, although confirmed
cases of direct urinary disease remain limited.
West Nile virus was detected in 48 of 95 urine samples in one investigation and 14 of 32 symptomatic patients in another, suggesting urine testing could improve diagnosis.
Treatment Challenges and Future Research
According to this
Thailand Medical News report, molecular testing, particularly PCR, helps detect viral genetic material and monitor infection.
Treatment generally emphasizes hydration, pain relief, monitoring, and carefully adjusting immunosuppressive medications when appropriate.
Antivirals such as cidofovir may benefit selected patients, although kidney toxicity remains a concern.
Conclusions
The findings suggest viruses deserve greater consideration when investigating urinary complications, especially among immunocompromised patients. However, detecting viruses does not establish disease, and further clinical studies are essential to clarify their effects, improve diagnosis, and develop safer treatments.
The study findings were published in the peer reviewed journal: Viruses.
https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/18/11/1240
Read Also:
https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/nephrology-(kidneys)
https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/coronavirus
https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/long-covid 
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