Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy as the First Manifestation of AIDS: A Rare Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) caused by the JC virus (JCV). Case Presentation: A 47-year-old woman with no history of any underlying diseases was hospitalized at our center with a loss of consciousness and aphasia. The investigation of the patient's history revealed that she had been hospitalized in another hospital a month earlier due to right hemiparesis and dysarthria. Brain imaging was repeated that revealed demyelinating lesions. The laboratory studies showed a positive human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) serology. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for JCV turned out positive and the diagnosis of PML was established. Conclusions: Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy should always be considered as an important differential diagnosis in patients with demyelinating brain lesions and HIV testing should be considered in these patients, as well.