Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Lung Rapid Recovery Procurement Combined with Abdominal Normothermic Regional Perfusion in Controlled Donation after Circulatory Death
Published on: August 15, 2022
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in a lung transplant recipient
David Shitrit1, Lev Nirit, Sheely I Shiran
1Pulmonary Institute, Rabin Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Petah Tivka, Israel.
Abstract:
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a sub-acute, demyelinating disease of the brain caused by a human polyomavirus. We describe a patient with the onset of PML 7 months after lung transplantation. The patient was treated with immunosuppressive modulation and cidofovir, a new anti-viral therapy for PML, with stabilization of the symptoms. We also review the 4 additional reports in the literature of PML after heart and lung transplantation. Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy may become more prevalent as the population of heart and lung transplantation recipients increases.
Insights
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rare brain infection. This study details a lung transplant patient treated successfully for PML with antiviral therapy, highlighting its potential increase post-transplant.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rare, severe demyelinating disease of the central nervous system.
- PML is caused by the John Cunningham virus (JCV), a human polyomavirus.
- PML typically affects individuals with compromised immune systems, including transplant recipients.
Observation:
- A case of PML occurring 7 months post-lung transplantation is presented.
- The patient received immunosuppressive therapy modulation and cidofovir, an antiviral agent.
- Four additional cases of PML following heart and lung transplantation were identified in the literature.
Findings:
- Treatment with immunosuppressive modulation and cidofovir led to stabilization of PML symptoms in the described patient.
- The review of literature indicates a pattern of PML occurrence after solid organ transplantation, particularly heart and lung transplants.
- The incidence of PML may rise with the increasing number of heart and lung transplant recipients.
Implications:
- This case and literature review underscore the risk of PML in lung transplant recipients.
- Cidofovir shows potential as an antiviral therapy for managing PML in immunocompromised patients.
- Increased surveillance and awareness of PML are crucial in managing the growing population of solid organ transplant recipients.
