Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in two natalizumab-treated stepsisters: An intriguing coincidence

Mult Scler. 2017 Feb;23(2):300-303. doi: 10.1177/1352458516670734.

Abstract

Background: Natalizumab, a treatment used in multiple sclerosis (MS), is associated with cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).

Objective: We describe two cases of PML in related but not genetically apparented natalizumab-treated MS patients who are stepsisters. Reported cases/outcomes: While Patient 1 developed PML, Patient 2 was on natalizumab and had contacts with Patient 1. Patient 2 was diagnosed with PML 5 months after Patient 1.

Conclusion: The clinical and temporal data highly suggest that there was JC virus (JCV) transmission from one patient to the other with development of PML as primo-infection in Patient 2.

Keywords: JC virus; Natalizumab; multiple sclerosis; progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy; transmission.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / therapeutic use
  • Antibodies, Viral / immunology*
  • Brain / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • JC Virus / immunology
  • JC Virus / pathogenicity*
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / diagnosis
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / etiology*
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / pathology
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Sclerosis / complications*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / drug therapy
  • Natalizumab / adverse effects*
  • Natalizumab / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Antibodies, Viral
  • Natalizumab