Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in an immunocompetent patient?

Background: Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rapidly progressive, potentially fatal, demyelinating disease affecting immunosuppressed patients. PML is rarely reported in cases with no underlying disease or immunosuppression-associated condition.

Case report: We present a 72-year-old previously healthy woman who developed a progressive neurological condition affecting the entire nervous system which led to her death within 5 months. PML was diagnosed at autopsy.

Conclusion: PML should be considered in patients with progressive neurological disorders involving the white matter, even in the absence of previous immunomodulatory treatment or immunosuppression.