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Suggest Treatment For JC Virus-induced Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy
Question: My husband contracted PML through the application of Rituximab as part of his treatment for Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. The condition is progressive, but he seems to have entered a stable phase, one year+ following diagnosis. He has suffered a significant brain injury but is functioning quite well, considering the condition. Is there anything happening in the world of neurology that might help him improve his functioning?
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Brief Answer:
Boosting immune system is the mainstay.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.
I have read your question and understand your concerns.
PML is caused by JC virus activation due to compromised immune system.
Since your husband's PML was caused by rituximab as a side effect, removal or decrease of any source of immunosuppression is recommended, since there is no specific treatment for JC virus.
There are different trials about drugs and treatment ways for PML, but nothing conclusive till now.
Removal of the drug through plasmapheresis and increasing or boosting your husband's immune system is the right treatment way.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Greetings.
Boosting immune system is the mainstay.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.
I have read your question and understand your concerns.
PML is caused by JC virus activation due to compromised immune system.
Since your husband's PML was caused by rituximab as a side effect, removal or decrease of any source of immunosuppression is recommended, since there is no specific treatment for JC virus.
There are different trials about drugs and treatment ways for PML, but nothing conclusive till now.
Removal of the drug through plasmapheresis and increasing or boosting your husband's immune system is the right treatment way.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Greetings.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
My question was a more general query regarding the recovery of brain function following serious brain trauma, and whether there are any trials, experiments etc relating to rewiring / retraining of brain. I understand the material regarding the virus itself
Brief Answer:
Stem cells are still under investigation.
Detailed Answer:
Welcome back.
Damaged brain cells and nervous tissue in general, are still studied for the possibility to be repaired with stem cells therapy.
Stem cells are actually used to treat or improve some diseases ( those affecting bone marrow, stroke etc.) but are still under research when it comes to nervous tissues.
Hope I helped you.
Take care.
Stem cells are still under investigation.
Detailed Answer:
Welcome back.
Damaged brain cells and nervous tissue in general, are still studied for the possibility to be repaired with stem cells therapy.
Stem cells are actually used to treat or improve some diseases ( those affecting bone marrow, stroke etc.) but are still under research when it comes to nervous tissues.
Hope I helped you.
Take care.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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