Detection of JC virus infection in progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy: The first documented case in Thailand

Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a demyelinating brain disease caused by human polyoma JC virus (JCV). This disease is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in AIDS patients. Definite diagnosis currently requires a brain biopsy. PCR for JCV of CSF, an emerging diagnostic t...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Taweekiat Dujneungkunakorn, Asda Vibhagool, Wasun Chantratita, Jiraporn Laothamatas, Somnuek Sungkanuparph, Wantanit Pairoj, Chutatip Srichunrusami, Teeratorn Pulkes
Other Authors: Mahidol University
Format: Article
Published: 2018
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Online Access:https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/20349
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Institution: Mahidol University
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Summary:Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a demyelinating brain disease caused by human polyoma JC virus (JCV). This disease is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in AIDS patients. Definite diagnosis currently requires a brain biopsy. PCR for JCV of CSF, an emerging diagnostic tool, has a high specificity for the diagnosis of PML in patients with characteristics on clinical and neuroradiological findings. The authors report a 36-year-old woman who presented with prolonged fever, progressive weakness, and slow speech for 2 months. Clinical features and MRI findings were compatible with PML. Qualitative PCR for JCV of CSF showed a positive result. This report emphasizes the yield of PCR, the CSF for JCV in a diagnosis of PML, which may reduce the need for a brain biopsy in such cases.