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Raptiva Viral Infections

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Raptiva, a medication prescribed to treat Psoriasis, can cause viral infections. This is admitted by Raptiva's manufacturer, Genentech, and has been confirmed by the FDA. Indeed, the link between Raptiva and viral infections is so clear that Genentech recently agreed to withdraw all of the Raptiva on the U.S. market, based on the viral infections diagnosed in Raptiva patients in America and around the world.

Viral Infections from Raptiva Treatment

As a treatment for Psoriasis, Raptiva is administered by needle once a week. Any injections carry the risk of infection at the site of the needle's entry, but this type of infection is not the basis of the Raptiva withdrawal. It is viral infections — such as meningitis and PML (progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy) associated with Raptiva treatment — that sparked the voluntary recall of Raptiva.

PML, a Brain Infection

Possibly the worst viral infection linked to Raptiva is PML, a brain infection that was once seen only in patients who had undergone organ transplant and those with AIDS. PML is an opportunistic viral infection; that is, it's an infection caused by something that doesn't normally cause disease. The "something" in this case is the JC virus, or JCV.

Roughly 70 to 90 percent of the human race will contract JCV in their childhood or adolescence. Named after John Cunningham — a patient who had PML — the JC virus isn't harmful unless the immune system of the person with JCV is severely suppressed or weakened.

This is where Raptiva and PML strike. Raptiva may suppress an individual's immune system as it attacks his or her psoriasis. The early symptoms of PML are often subtle, such as slight weakness of the hands or legs, a decrease in coordination, or difficulty concentrating. These signs may be mistaken for simple fatigue or medication side effects.

PML Symptoms Get Worse

The symptoms only get worse: headaches, vision problems, difficulty speaking and seizures are often experienced among those with Raptiva. There is no cure for the effects of this viral infection as it destroys the brain's white matter. PML is usually fatal, and when it does not kill its victims, it leaves them with permanent neurological damage.

If a diagnosis of PML or another viral infection linked to Raptiva has befallen you or your family member, you may qualify to receive monetary compensation to help with medical and treatment costs. For more information or to speak with a Raptiva attorney today, contact us.