# Human Polyomavirus-Associated Cerebral Disorders in the Post-HAART Era

Authors: Filiberto Cedeno-Laurent; Augusto C. Penalva de Oliveira; José E. Vidal; J. Roberto Trujillo
Journal: Pathology Research International
 (2011)

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## Abstract

Human polyomavirus JC is the causative agent of a deadly form of sudden onset dementia, progressive multifocal leukocoencephalopathy (PML). PML is highly prevalent in immunodeficient populations, specially those undergoing chemotherapy, immunosuppressive treatments for autoimmune conditions, and HIV-1/AIDS patients.
In fact, before the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) regimens became available, PML was a leading cause of death in HIV-1 seropositive individuals. However, patients under HAART show increased survival times with better prognoses. In this report we described the main differences between PML before and after the HAART era; highlighting the new patterns of presentation, the neurotropism of other human polyomaviruses, and the increased prevalence of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), as a complication of PML in patients under HAART. Lastly, we propose a revised classification of human poliomavirus-associated cerebral disorders that may reflect more accurately what clinicians encounter in their everyday practice.


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## Body


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