Who is most likely to develop PML?
While up to 90 percent of the world’s population is estimated to carry the latent JC virus, this strain only becomes active on rare occasions, particularly when an individual: • Has a serious immune deficiency, such as AIDS • Takes certain types of medications known to suppress the immune system, including chemotherapy drugs, immunosupressants prescribed after an organ transplant, MS medication and the psoriasis medication known as Raptiva. To minimize the risk of developing PML, patients are advised to discuss their complete medical history with their doctor before starting a course of any medication. Those who decide to start a course of Raptiva or other high risk medications should be aware of the signs and should seek treatment for PML immediately, should symptoms arise.
