PML: The Dark Side of Immunotherapy in Multiple Sclerosis

Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2015 Dec;36(12):799-801. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2015.09.006. Epub 2015 Oct 21.

Abstract

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a threat to patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) who undergo treatment with drugs that interfere with normal immune physiology. Here, we summarize PML incidence in MS, risk factors, surveillance strategies, and case definitions to inform neurologists and other clinicians treating patients with immune-mediated diseases.

Keywords: JC virus; PML; natalizumab; risk.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alemtuzumab
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / adverse effects
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / therapeutic use
  • Fingolimod Hydrochloride / adverse effects
  • Fingolimod Hydrochloride / therapeutic use
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / adverse effects
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / methods
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Factors / adverse effects
  • Immunologic Factors / therapeutic use
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Immunotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Immunotherapy / methods*
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / chemically induced
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / etiology*
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / immunology*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / immunology*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / therapy*
  • Natalizumab / adverse effects
  • Natalizumab / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Immunologic Factors
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Natalizumab
  • Alemtuzumab
  • Fingolimod Hydrochloride