[Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Undesirable side effect of immunotherapy].

As new cases arise of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) treated with the monoclonal antibody natalizumab, a critical discussion about risks and advantages of this specific kind of immunotherapy appears necessary. Practical consequences and treatment options are addressed based on current concepts of PML's pathogenesis in patients treated with natalizumab. Critical patient selection based on risk:benefit considerations, limited therapy regimens, early diagnosis of PML by clinical and paraclinical criteria, and therapeutic perspectives for treating PML are discussed. The risk of PML in patients with MS needs to be continually monitored and should be reduced with all means available to ensure optimal outcome.