Video - JC virus (Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy)

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rare, often fatal demyelinating disease of the brain, caused by JC virus. JC virus is a non-enveloped, double-stranded DNA virus that can be found latent and harmless in most adults.

However, in people with weakened immune systems, the virus can cause PML, in which the white matter in the brain gets destroyed, leading to progressive and irreversible axon demyelination that presents with motor and cognitive neurological symptoms

There is no specific treatment for PML and it is usually fatal. However, some people with PML may improve with treatment for their underlying condition (e.g., HIV/AIDS).