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Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML)

By Mark Cichocki, R.N., About.com

Created: May 29, 2004

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: A rapidly debilitating opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus that infects brain tissue and causes damage to the brain and the spinal cord. Symptoms vary from patient to patient but include loss of muscle control, paralysis, blindness, problems with speech, and an altered mental state. PML can lead to coma and death. In some cases, HAART regimens using medications known to cross the blood-brain barrier are used to treat PML.

For more information on PML follow this link.

Also Known As: PML
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