[Progressive BK virus associated multifocal leukoencephalopathy in an immunocompromised patient treated with corticosteroids].

INTRODUCTION

BK virus has been described previously in renal transplant patients, but has also been reported in cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.

METHOD: A case of progressive BK virus multifocal leukoencephalopathy induced by long-term corticosteroid therapy is reported.

RESULTS

In our case, BK virus was detected in cerebrospinal fluid by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A detailed review of similar cases in the literature showed most of them occurred in AIDS patients, but four involved immunocompetent patients.

CONCLUSION

Though BK virus infection usually leads to urinary tract symptoms in immunologically suppressed patients, it is important to be aware of its neurological manifestations and to recognize BK infections that can occur in immunocompetent patients.