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Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy or PML is caused by a virus called JC virus. In people with AIDS, the virus attacks the white matter of the brain, causing nerve damage.
Symptoms and diagnosis
Signs of PML can include mental dysfunction, loss of speech, and paralysis of one side of the body. PML can be recognised on a brain scan.
Treatment
PML is a serious and progressive disease that can only be halted or reversed by highly active antiretroviral treatment. A drug called cidofovir, which acts against the JC virus, has been used in some cases.
