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

• 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
• Subjects: Medicine
• Online Access: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/20349

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.