Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis and polymyositis

J Rheumatol. 1995 Apr;22(4):777-9.

Abstract

We describe a young woman who developed postpartum rheumatoid arthritis, polymyositis and small vessel cerebrovascular disease. Subsequently she developed biopsy proven progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (due to JC virus infection) which may have been a complication of her immunosuppression. This rare complication of autoimmune rheumatic diseases is discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / complications*
  • Biopsy
  • Brain / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / complications*
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / pathology
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Muscles / pathology
  • Polymyositis / complications*
  • Puerperal Disorders / complications*