Which polyomavirus is linked to progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in AIDS?

Which polyomavirus is linked to progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in AIDS?

• A. BK virus
• B. Simian virus 40
• C. JC virus
• D. Merkel cell polyomavirus

Answer: (C)

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in AIDS is caused by reactivation of JC virus, a polyomavirus that infects oligodendrocytes and leads to demyelination in the central nervous system. In severely immunosuppressed individuals, latent JC virus becomes active and produces multifocal white-matter lesions, causing neurologic deficits. BK virus, another polyomavirus, more commonly causes nephropathy and hemorrhagic cystitis, especially in transplant patients. Simian virus 40 is a polyomavirus studied for oncogenic potential but not typically linked to PML. Merkel cell polyomavirus is associated with Merkel cell carcinoma, a skin cancer.

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in AIDS is caused by reactivation of JC virus, a polyomavirus that infects oligodendrocytes and leads to demyelination in the central nervous system. In severely immunosuppressed individuals, latent JC virus becomes active and produces multifocal white-matter lesions, causing neurologic deficits. BK virus, another polyomavirus, more commonly causes nephropathy and hemorrhagic cystitis, especially in transplant patients. Simian virus 40 is a polyomavirus studied for oncogenic potential but not typically linked to PML. Merkel cell polyomavirus is associated with Merkel cell carcinoma, a skin cancer.