JC Virus & PML
JC Virus & PML
I was starting to feel good but I just got an email from my neuro with the results of my blood test for teciferda and i tested positive for the JC virus. I got to continue with Avonex. But now what the hell is JC virus? Apparently it leads to pml and how do I test to see if I have that? Does anyone know anything about JC virus or pml?
@A MyMSTeam Member
The John Cunningham virus, known more commonly as the JC virus, is a very common virus in the United States. It’s estimated that more than three-quarters of Americans have it. The average person carrying the JC virus will never know and is unlikely to suffer any side effects as a result of its being in his or her body.
However, for a small percentage of individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS), that is not the case. The JC virus can be activated when a person’s immune system is compromised because of disease or immunosuppressive medication. The virus can then be carried into the brain, where it infects the white matter of the brain and attacks the cells responsible for making myelin, the protective coating that covers and protects nerve cells. This infection is called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). (1) PML can be disabling, even fatal.
I have never heard of either of JC virus, or PML. Looks like this is due to immunosuppressive medications.
So sorry for the new diagnosis. I pray about what I have today. I thank God for being alive and then all my family etc.
Update my new neuro is putting me on Tecifedera even though I tested positive for JC Virus. I just have to do blood work checked every 6 mths
I also have the J C virus, so switched from Tysabri to rebif
Yes, JVC is common, I guess you won't be on tecfideria, I have heard that it makes one at risk for JVC
