Genentech has issued a letter to healthcare providers of a second case of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in a patient being treated with Raptiva (efalizumab). It has resulted in the death of a 73-year old woman treated for approximately four years for chronic plaque psoriasis. Genentech believes that Raptiva likely increases the risk of PML and is further increased by prolonged exposure and older age.

Raptiva is an immunosuppressant indicated for the treatment of moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic or phototherapy.

For more information call (877) RAPTIVA or visit www.gene.com/gene/news/press-releases.