[Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in a patient with multiple myeloma]

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Cecilie Balslev Willert1, Frederik Neess Engsig, Helle Wulf Eskildsen

  • 1Dagmarsgade 10, 3. th., 2200 København N. ceciliebwi@gmail.com.

Ugeskrift for Laeger
|December 16, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare brain disease caused by John Cunningham virus reactivation, can occur in immunocompromised patients. This case highlights PML in a multiple myeloma patient treated with chemotherapy, emphasizing its importance in diagnosing neurological symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimmunology
  • Neurology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rare, severe demyelinating disease of the central nervous system.
  • PML is caused by the reactivation of the John Cunningham virus (JCV).
  • It most commonly affects individuals with HIV/AIDS but can also occur in those with iatrogenic immunodeficiency.

Observation:

  • A patient with multiple myeloma and cardiac amyloidosis developed PML.
  • The patient had received multiple chemotherapeutic agents.
  • This presentation occurred in the context of iatrogenic immunodeficiency.

Findings:

  • This case report details a rare instance of PML in a patient with multiple myeloma and cardiac amyloidosis.
  • The development of PML was associated with chemotherapy treatment.
  • The patient exhibited diffuse neurological symptoms.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering PML in the differential diagnosis of neurological symptoms in immunocompromised patients.
  • Underscores the potential risk of PML in patients undergoing chemotherapy, particularly those with underlying conditions like multiple myeloma.
  • Emphasizes the need for vigilance in recognizing PML in diverse immunocompromised populations beyond HIV/AIDS.

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