American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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JC virus antibody screening is recommended for patients with multiple sclerosis treated with which medication?

Fingolimod
Mitoxantrone
Natalizumab
Interferon beta

The correct answer is: Natalizumab

JC virus antibody screening is particularly recommended for patients being treated with Natalizumab because this medication has been associated with an increased risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a serious viral infection of the brain caused by the JC virus. The JC virus is common and usually causes no symptoms in healthy individuals. However, in immunocompromised patients or those on certain immunosuppressive therapies, like Natalizumab, the risk of PML significantly elevates. Screening for JC virus antibodies helps in assessing the risk of this rare but serious condition. Understanding the connection between Natalizumab and JC virus is crucial for healthcare providers, allowing them to make informed decisions regarding patient safety and risk management. In contrast, the other medications listed, such as Fingolimod, Mitoxantrone, and Interferon beta, do not carry the same level of association with PML and do not typically require JC virus antibody screening. Thus, focusing on the risks associated with Natalizumab highlights the importance of monitoring and preventive strategies in managing patients with multiple sclerosis effectively.