Progressive Multifocal Encephalopathy
Progressive Multifocal Encephalopathy Causes
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy is caused by the opportunistic infection of brain cells brought about by the JC virus.
Progressive Multifocal Encephalopathy Definition
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy is a rapidly progressive neuromuscular disease; an opportunistic infection occurring in individuals with deficient and ineffective immune response and individuals going through long-term chemotherapy for cancer.
Progressive Multifocal Encephalopathy Diagnosis
CT scan is used to assess the white matter in the brain, Magnetic Resonance Imaging is used for a more detailed analysis of the brain. Neurologist and radiologist are the health care professionals that can aid in establishing diagnosis. Cerebrospinal spinal fluid tests are carried out to rule out other disorders and help distinguish progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.
Progressive Multifocal Encephalopathy Symptoms and Signs
Individuals suffering from progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy are subjected to experience problems related to vision particularly blindness in half of the visual field of both eyes. Other symptoms that may occur include severe weakness, paralysis on one side of the body, and speech or language difficulty. Less than half of individuals with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy may encounter and deal with mental impairment.
Progressive Multifocal Encephalopathy Treatment
It is a very destructive disorder that has no known cure. The disease may respond to treatment appropriate in patients with AIDS who are taking anti-HIV medications. There have been some agents that were thought to be relevant in the treatment of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy including cytarabine, a highly toxic drug used in the treatment of cancer; however there is still no significant basis that these agents are effective for treating PML.