Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in an adolescent child infected with human immunodeficiency virus: a case report

Abstract

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is an AIDS-defining neurologic disease caused by the JC polyoma virus. It typically occurs in immunocompromised individuals and without treatment, patients have a relentless downhill course. Early detection may improve the prognosis. A 12-year-old male child, a known HIV positive case with abdominal tuberculosis on ATT for 15 days, was brought to us in status epilepticus. After controlling seizures with phenytoin, the child was intubated and mechanically ventilated. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) was withheld temporarily and Anti-tuberculous therapy (ATT) was modified. Plain computerised tomography of the brain showed atrophy of brain parenchyma. Five days after the patient was shifted out of ICU, he again developed multiple episodes of convulsions. All reversible causes were investigated for and ruled out. MRI brain revealed features suggestive of PML with diffuse cerebral and cerebellar atrophy which was disproportionate to age. At present, the incidence of PML in children affected with HIV is still rare. There is still limited information regarding this spectrum of patients, especially their further management following diagnosis. Precise treatment protocols would help guide clinicians in regard to diagnosis and management of these complex cases.