JC and BK polyomavirus-specific immunoglobulin G responses in patients thymectomized in early childhood

Although seroprevalence and maintenance of antibodies against BKPyV and JCPyV were similar between TP and HC, a more dynamic process was suggested for TP, with a probably delayed humoral immune response in some patients but similar waning of antibodies compared to HC. Our study supports the hypothesis that in thymectomy, similar to vaccination, antibody responses to neo-antigens are delayed. The assessment of long-term antibody stability together with cellular reactivity and detection of viremic episodes will elucidate further aspects of controlling of persistent viral infections in thymectomized individuals and the role of a complete thymus.