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Visualizing Impairment of the Endothelial and Glial Barriers of the Neurovascular Unit during Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis In Vivo
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[Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy as a complication of natalizumab therapy]

Merja Soilu-Hänninen, Markku Päivärinta, Pirkko Sonninen

    Duodecim; Laaketieteellinen Aikakauskirja
    |June 1, 2013
    PubMed

    Insights

    Natalizumab, used for multiple sclerosis, carries a risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). This report details the first Finnish case of PML in a multiple sclerosis patient treated with natalizumab.

    Area of Science:

    • Neuroimmunology
    • Neurology
    • Pharmacology

    Background:

    • Natalizumab is a disease-modifying therapy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
    • The treatment carries a known risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).
    • The global incidence of natalizumab-associated PML is approximately 2.77 per 1,000 patients.

    Observation:

    • Over 108,000 patients worldwide had received natalizumab by December 2012.
    • In Finland, 350 multiple sclerosis patients were on natalizumab therapy.
    • This paper presents the first diagnosed case of PML in a Finnish patient receiving natalizumab.

    Findings:

    • The patient developed progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) as a complication of natalizumab treatment.
    • This represents the first documented case of PML in Finland associated with natalizumab therapy for multiple sclerosis.
    • A second Finnish case has since been identified.

    Implications:

    • Highlights the importance of monitoring for PML in multiple sclerosis patients undergoing natalizumab therapy.
    • Underscores the need for continued vigilance and risk-benefit assessment in natalizumab treatment protocols.
    • Contributes to understanding the geographical distribution and clinical presentation of natalizumab-induced PML.

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