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Levamisole-induced leukoencephalopathy: a rare drug side effect

https://doi.org/10.20862/0042-4676-2024-105-6-314-324

Abstract

Levamisole is an antihelminthic drug that is widely used in clinical practice. One of its rare side effects is the development of levamisole-associated multifocal inflammatory leukoencephalopathy, which progresses 2–8 weeks after treatment and is characterized by brain demyelination and white matter damage. The article describes a case of levamisole-induced leukoencephalopathy, which should be differentiated from multiple sclerosis, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, and neuromyelitis optica.

About the Authors

E. S. Yelshibayeva
Medical Center Hospital of the President’s Affairs Administration of the Republic of Kazakhstan; Astana Medical University
Kazakhstan

Elmira S. Yelshibayeva, PhD, Head of the Department of Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Associate Professor

prospekt Mangilik El, 80, Astana, 010000

ul. Beibytshilyk, 49/А, Astana, 010000



A. Zh. Suigenbayev
Medical Center Hospital of the President’s Affairs Administration of the Republic of Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan

Aigerim Zh. Suigenbayeva, Radiologist

prospekt Mangilik El, 80, Astana, 010000



A. B. Mergalimova
Medical Center Hospital of the President’s Affairs Administration of the Republic of Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan

Akerke B. Mergalimova, Resident Radiologist

prospekt Mangilik El, 80, Astana, 010000



Zh. B. Ospanova
Medical Center Hospital of the President’s Affairs Administration of the Republic of Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan

Zhanar B. Ospanova, Neurologist

prospekt Mangilik El, 80, Astana, 010000



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Review

For citations:


Yelshibayeva E.S., Suigenbayev A.Zh., Mergalimova A.B., Ospanova Zh.B. Levamisole-induced leukoencephalopathy: a rare drug side effect. Journal of radiology and nuclear medicine. 2024;105(6):314-324. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.20862/0042-4676-2024-105-6-314-324

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