Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

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What is the greatest risk factor for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy?

Anemia
AIDS
Multiple sclerosis
Chronic fatigue syndrome

The correct answer is: AIDS

The greatest risk factor for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is AIDS. PML is a rare but serious neurological condition caused by the John Cunningham virus (JCV), which is typically benign in healthy individuals but can lead to severe demyelination in those with compromised immune systems. Individuals with AIDS have a significantly weakened immune response due to the HIV virus attacking CD4 T-cells, making them more susceptible to opportunistic infections and conditions like PML. The prevalence of PML is particularly high among individuals with AIDS compared to the general population, reinforcing the link between severe immunosuppression and the risk of developing this condition. Other options may present diagnosable conditions, but they do not have the same strong association with PML as AIDS. For example, while multiple sclerosis can involve demyelination, the mechanism is different, and MS patients typically do not have the significant immune suppression that characterizes AIDS. Chronic fatigue syndrome and anemia are not directly linked to the development of PML in the same manner and do not notably increase the risk of contracting the disease.