However, other people are at risknot only people with MS.
They may include:
Even though PML is an infection, it doesn’t usually cause a fever.
Early diagnosis offers you the best chance for a good outcome should you develop this disease.
Alex Dos Diaz / Verywell
Interferons such asAvonex (interferon beta-1a)andBetaseron (interferon beta-1b)do not increase the risk of PML.
And corticosteroids, which are used during an MS exacerbation, are also not associated with PML.
Other people (not just MS patients) get PML.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
Diagnosis
The symptoms of PML are often similar to those of an MS relapse.
However, these are simply clues, not hard-and-fast rules.
They may be described as atypical, diffuse, or patchy.
In some instances, a brain biopsy is done to examine an area of abnormality in the brain.
Survivors are highly likely to experience long-term consequences, such as personality changes, seizures, and neurological deficits.
Additional therapies for these issues are likely.
Plasmapheresis is a process of plasma exchange.
However, note that maraviroc is currently only an experimental drug at this time.
Keep in mind that about 80% of the population has JC-Virus antibodies, so testing positive is expected.
As with any condition, early intervention is key.
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