Patients At Risk of Contracting Rare Disease

The psoriasis drug Raptiva (efalizumab) was recalled in April 2009 by the manufacturer, Genetech, due to the potential risk to patients of a disease known as PML (progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy). This is a rare, but serious, and most often fatal, infection of the brain. The infection attacks the central nervous system and, due to the weakened immune systems of these psoriasis patients, usually results in death. There is no known cure or treatment for this disease.

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms generally associated with the disease are:

• Unusual Weakness
• Loss of Coordination
• Changes in Vision
• Slurred or Difficulty Speaking
• Cognitive Deterioration
• Personality Changes

Prescribed for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis

Raptiva is administered in the form of a weekly injection. The drug was prescribed for adult patients with moderate to severe psoriasis who were candidates for whole body therapy or phototherapy. The drug suppresses the T-cells, which left untreated, results in inflamed skin patches associated with psoriasis. In some patients, however, Raptiva decreased the immune system to a point where it could no longer fight off infections.

Other Serious Side Effects

Raptiva use has also been believed to have other serious side effects such as viral meningitis, sepsis infection of the kidneys or lungs, lymphoma (cancer of the lymph nodes).

Contact Our Personal Injury Firm

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Contact our firm serving Boston, Springfield, Worcester, and communities throughout Massachusetts to schedule a consultation with a dangerous drug lawyer. Our attorneys are committed to helping victims obtain maximum compensation for their personal injuries.