Extensive white matter lesions after 2 years of fingolimod: Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy or MS relapse?

Mult Scler. 2017 Apr;23(4):614-616. doi: 10.1177/1352458516682858. Epub 2016 Dec 14.

Abstract

Background: Fingolimod is a widely used treatment for highly active relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

Objectives: To describe the case of a 27-year-old patient treated for more than 2 years by Fingolimod, who presented hemiplegia and speech disturbances associated with extensive white matter lesions on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods: Case study.

Results: Although initial presentation questioned the possibility of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, final diagnosis was multiple sclerosis (MS) relapse. Appropriate treatment resulted in clinical and radiological improvement.

Conclusion: Severe MS relapses under Fingolimod have been reported, but late onset after treatment initiation and extensive subcortical topography is unusual and represents a diagnostic challenge.

Keywords: MRI; Multiple sclerosis; fingolimod; progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.

MeSH terms

  • Fingolimod Hydrochloride / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / drug therapy*
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / pathology
  • Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting / drug therapy*
  • Natalizumab / therapeutic use*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • White Matter / drug effects
  • White Matter / pathology*

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Natalizumab
  • Fingolimod Hydrochloride