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[Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in a non-AIDS patient: high efficiency of combined cytarabine and

B Terrier1, A Hummel, F Fakhouri

  • 1Service de Néphrologie Adultes, Hôpital Necker-Enfants-malades, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Université Paris-Descartes, 75015 Paris, France.

La Revue De Medecine Interne
|June 19, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare brain infection in immunocompromised individuals, can mimic autoimmune flares. Combined cytarabine and cidofovir showed promise for treating PML in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimmunology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a severe opportunistic CNS infection.
  • PML affects immunocompromised patients, often leading to rapid deterioration.
  • Current PML treatments are largely ineffective and lack standardization.

Observation:

  • A 48-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus presented with PML.
  • Her PML symptoms mimicked a neurolupus flare, complicating diagnosis.
  • The patient was undergoing immunosuppressive therapy for lupus.

Findings:

  • A combination therapy of cytarabine and cidofovir was administered.
  • Complete remission of PML was achieved in the patient.
  • This treatment approach proved effective for PML in this case.

Implications:

  • Combined cytarabine and cidofovir represent a potential therapeutic strategy for PML.
  • This approach is particularly relevant for PML cases associated with autoimmune disorders.
  • Further research is warranted to validate this treatment for PML in similar patient populations.

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