Seroprevalence and seroconversion of JC virus antibodies in a Mexican multiple sclerosis patients cohort

Abstract

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is an infectious and opportunistic disease caused by the John Cunningham virus (JCV), in a immunusupresion state, JCV can be reactivated. In patients with recurrent remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), the immunosuppressants or immunoregulators are administered as disease-modifying treatment, one of them is natalizumab, unfortunately, it has been associated with the development of PML. The quantification of JCVAb is of particular interest since it has been directly proportionally associated with the development of PML. This study objective was to determine the prevalence of JCVAb seropositivity in a sample of patients with MS in Mexico and their behavior of seroconversion. Methods: The antibody index was determined using the STRATIFY JCV TM test, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in a reference laboratory, Quest Diagnostics Infectious Disease, Inc., California. Results: A total of 93 patients with RRMS who had at least one JCVAb determination were included from November 2015 to November 2020 Discussion: Factors such as age and gender do not contribute to seroconversion, we understand the importance of extending the measurement of other elements that could influence in the behavior of the VJC status, this study identified a prevalence of JCVAb seropositivity of 67.7%, the positive seroconversion rate was lower than reported.

Keywords

• Multiple Sclerosis. Index JC virus. Natalizumab. Mexico. Seroprevalence.