Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy Symptoms

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) symptoms are alarming when they are first experienced, and they're eventually disabling and most often deadly as they progress. A diagnosis of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy is one of the most devastating diagnoses a patient can receive. The symptoms of this disease are similar to those of multiple sclerosis (MS), but they're much more deadly.

What are the progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy symptoms?

The Diversity of PML Symptoms

It's important to emphasize the diversity of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy symptoms — this infection attacks different parts of the brain in different individuals, and thus the exact symptoms of PML in a given case cannot be predicted. The term "multifocal" in "progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy" indicates that the infection (caused by the JC virus) attacks multiple sites — none of which are predictable.

The Most Common PML Symptoms

Nevertheless, the most commonly observed early symptoms of PML include:

clumsiness, loss of coordination
weakness
changes in vision — e.g., blurred or fading vision
changes in speech — e.g., slurred speech, difficulty speaking
personality changes

Destruction of the Brain's White Matter

The symptoms of PML also depend on the amount of damage that the JCV wreaks in the brain. The terms "progressive" and "-pathy" of "progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy" indicates that the disease keeps gaining ground. In fact, there's no effective treatment or cure for PML. The "leukoencephalopathy" refers to the white matter of the brain, which the virus destroys. PML symptoms progress to the point of severely disabling or killing a PML patient.

PML Symptoms among Raptiva Patients

PML was once observed only in patients who are HIV-positive or have AIDS and others whose immune systems were compromised. However, PML symptoms have been observed among patients treated with Raptiva, a drug designed to treat psoriasis. Because of the link between Raptiva and PML, it was recalled in April 2009.

Oddly enough, a treatment for MS called Tysabri (natalizumab) also carries a high risk of inducing PML. The Tysabri packaging includes a prominent warning about how taking Tysabri increases your chances of contracting PML.

If You Have Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy Symptoms

If you're experiencing PML symptoms and you have been treated with Raptiva or Tysabri, contact your doctor immediately. Once you get your health stabilized, it is in your best interest to contact a lawyer for defective drugs who will help you recover the compensation you will need for future treatments and will fight to protect your legal rights. For more information or to schedule a confidential, no-cost consultation with an experienced Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy attorney, contact us today.

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