Hiv-Related Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy: A Case Report

Abstract The JC virus is widespread within individuals across the globe. It is usually in a latent form, but if immunity is decreased in a person this virus is reactivated leading to progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). This is a rare neurological disease that can occur in cases of uncontrolled HIV/ AIDS. This report aims to highlight the importance of patients with HIV following a strict treatment regime and ensuring that this message is expressed to them by physicians in practice. We specifically report a patient case study in which our patient was non-compliant with his HIV medication, leading to neurological deficits. On admission, our patient presented with left limb paraesthesia, walking difficulties, and temporospatial disorientation. Many investigations and bedside tests were carried out before an MRI confirmed the presence of demyelinating gliotic lesions in the brain, leading to the diagnosis of PML. Due to the nature of PML, despite antiviral treatment, his condition progressively worsened. He presented two months later with further neurological pathologies, specifically a visual field disorder. Despite this disease being rare, the aim of this paper is to place emphasis on the lethality of the condition, therefore shifting a focus on preventing the disease in the first place via patient compliance with HIV medication.