For Natalizumab-Associated PML, Prevention Is Still Key

When progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy does occur, patients who are asymptomatic at diagnosis have better outcomes.

Natalizumab, an anti-α4 integrin monoclonal antibody approved for treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS), is associated with excess risk for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic central nervous system infection caused by the JC virus. Diagnosis of PML is based on detection of JC virus in cerebrospinal fluid or on neuropathology. Most patients with PML present with progressive neurological worsening and typical features on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), but some with MRI findings may be asymptomatic at diagnosis. Now, in a study supported by the manufacturer of natalizumab, researchers assessed outcomes in initially asymptomatic PML patients.

Among 372 cases of natalizumab-associated PML, 30 patients (8%) were d…

Reviewing Author

Jeffrey M. Gelfand, MD, MAS

Disclosures

12/1/14I recently attended a trial investigator meeting as a sub-investigator for a clinical trial sponsored by Medimmune.

Jeffrey M. Gelfand, MD, MAS

Disclosures

12/1/14I recently attended a trial investigator meeting as a sub-investigator for a clinical trial sponsored by Medimmune.

For Natalizumab-Associated PML, Prevention Is Still Key

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Reviewing Author