Detection of JC virus infection in progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy: the first documented case in Thailand

J Med Assoc Thai. 2002 Oct;85(10):1139-44.

Abstract

Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a demyelinating brain disease caused by human polyoma JC virus (JCV). This disease is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in AIDS patients. Definite diagnosis currently requires a brain biopsy. PCR for JCV of CSF, an emerging diagnostic tool, has a high specificity for the diagnosis of PML in patients with characteristics on clinical and neuroradiological findings. The authors report a 36-year-old woman who presented with prolonged fever, progressive weakness, and slow speech for 2 months. Clinical features and MRI findings were compatible with PML. Qualitative PCR for JCV of CSF showed a positive result. This report emphasizes the yield of PCR, the CSF for JCV in a diagnosis of PML, which may reduce the need for a brain biopsy in such cases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / complications*
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Adult
  • Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Biopsy
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid / virology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • JC Virus / isolation & purification*
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / complications
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / diagnosis*
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / epidemiology
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / therapy
  • Neurosurgical Procedures
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Thailand / epidemiology
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents