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Anti-JC virus seroprevalence in a Finnish MS cohort

M Kolasa1, S Hagman1, A Verkkoniemi-Ahola2

  • 1Neuroimmunology Unit, Medical School, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.

Acta Neurologica Scandinavica
|September 9, 2015
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

The JC virus (JCV) antibody prevalence is high in Finnish multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, particularly men and older individuals. Natalizumab therapy may lower JCV antibody levels, indicating an immunosuppressive effect.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimmunology
  • Virology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • The JC virus (JCV) poses a risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients on biological therapies.
  • Understanding JCV seroprevalence is crucial for managing PML risk in MS patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine anti-JCV antibody seroprevalence in Finnish patients with MS and clinically isolated syndrome.
  • To identify clinical risk factors associated with JCV seropositivity.

Main Methods:

  • Analyzed JCV seroprevalence in 503 patients using a second-generation two-step ELISA.
  • Conducted longitudinal serological evaluation in 67 patients over 4.5 years.

Main Results:

  • Overall JCV seroprevalence was 57.4%, higher in men and increasing with age.
  • Natalizumab treatment was associated with lower anti-JCV antibody levels (P=0.01).
  • Serostatus fluctuated over time, with conversions and reversions observed.

Conclusions:

  • High anti-JCV antibody prevalence in MS patients is linked to age and male gender, not disease-modifying therapies.
  • Natalizumab may decrease anti-JCV antibody levels, suggesting immunosuppression.
  • Anti-JCV antibody testing is valuable for PML risk assessment, but serostatus changes require consideration.
Keywords:
JC virusanti-JCV antibodiesmultiple sclerosisscreening index

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