Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy
Key points
- PML is a rare inflammatory disorder that leads to loss of myelin in multiple areas within the white matter of the brain.
- It is a virus-induced disease seen in people with poor immune function (immunocompromised).
- Symptoms and signs include loss of coordination, clumsiness, Memory loss, progressively worsening weakness of the legs, and to a lesser extent, arms.
- Other signs may include loss of language capability (Aphasia), visual field defects, and headaches.
Alternative names
PML
Definition
PML is a rare inflammatory disorder that leads to loss of myelin in multiple areas within the white matter of the brain. It is a virus-induced disease seen in people with poor immune function (immunocompromised).
Symptoms and signs include loss of coordination, clumsiness, Memory loss, progressively worsening weakness of the legs, and to a lesser extent, arms.
Other signs may include loss of language capability (Aphasia), visual field defects, and headaches. The greatest risk is being immunosuppressed.
The causal virus, JC virus, is a common resident in most adults, but it triggers loss of myelin in those whose immune function is deficient. It occurs in 4% of adult individuals with AIDS.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
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