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The JC virus antibody response in serum and cerebrospinal fluid in progressive multifocal leucoencephalopathy

W A Knowles1, R W Luxton, J F Hand

  • 1Virus Reference Division, Central Public Health Laboratory, Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5HT, UK.

Clinical and Diagnostic Virology
|August 1, 1995
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Detecting JC virus (JCV) antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a sensitive and specific diagnostic marker for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). This study highlights JCV serology

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Virology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) diagnosis relies on invasive methods like brain biopsy.
  • JC virus (JCV) DNA detection in CSF is less invasive but its serological markers for PML diagnosis are under-explored.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the JC virus (JCV) antibody response in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of PML patients.
  • To assess the diagnostic utility of JCV serology in PML.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of serum and CSF samples from 28 confirmed PML patients and 71 controls.
  • Utilized haemagglutination inhibition (HI), M-antibody capture radioimmunoassay (MACRIA), and JC-specific oligoclonal IgG banding.

Main Results:

  • JCV HI antibodies were detected in 96% of PML patients' serum versus 68% of controls (P < 0.005).
  • JCV HI antibodies were found in CSF of 67% of PML patients, with 100% specificity.
  • Intrathecal JCV-specific IgG bands confirmed local antibody production in PML patients.

Conclusions:

  • Intrathecal JCV antibody presence signifies active CNS infection and is a valuable diagnostic marker for PML.
  • Absence of serum JCV antibody largely excludes PML diagnosis.
  • Antibody titers correlate with the underlying condition, not neurological symptoms.

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