1
|
Katwal S, Suwal S, Lamichhane S, Bhusal A, Ghimire A. Insight into adult-onset metachromatic leukodystrophy with optic atrophy: A comprehensive case report. Radiol Case Rep 2023; 18:4182-4186. [PMID: 37745772 PMCID: PMC10511329 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2023.08.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This abstract provides an overview of metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), an autosomal recessive disorder stemming from arylsulfatase A deficiency. MLD leads to cerebroside sulfate accumulation, causing central and peripheral demyelination. Clinical manifestations vary by age group: late-infantile (rapid progression), juvenile (slower progression), and adult-onset (psychiatric symptoms). A case study details a 23-year-old with progressive vision impairment, motor weakness, and cognitive changes. Examination and MRI findings led to suspicion of MLD, later confirmed by enzyme testing. Optic nerve involvement is emphasized, along with diagnostic criteria involving enzyme assays, imaging, and urinary sulfatide excretion tests. While no cure exists, symptomatic and supportive care, including hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, remains key in MLD management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shailendra Katwal
- Department of Radiology, Dadeldhura Subregional Hospital, Dadeldhura, Nepal
| | - Sundar Suwal
- Department of Radiology, Maharajgunj Medical College, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Suman Lamichhane
- Department of Radiology, Nepal A.P.F. Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Amrit Bhusal
- Department of Surgery, BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Resende LL, de Paiva ARB, Kok F, da Costa Leite C, Lucato LT. Adult Leukodystrophies: A Step-by-Step Diagnostic Approach. Radiographics 2020; 39:153-168. [PMID: 30620693 DOI: 10.1148/rg.2019180081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Leukodystrophies usually affect children, but in the last several decades, many instances of adult leukodystrophies have been reported in the medical literature. Because the clinical manifestation of these diseases can be nonspecific, MRI can help with establishing a diagnosis. A step-by-step approach to assist in the diagnosis of adult leukodystrophies is proposed in this article. The first step is to identify symmetric white matter involvement, which is more commonly observed in these patients. The next step is to fit the symmetric white matter involvement into one of the proposed patterns. However, a patient may present with more than one pattern of white matter involvement. Thus, the third step is to evaluate for five distinct characteristics-including enhancement, lesions with signal intensity similar to that of cerebrospinal fluid, susceptibility-weighted MRI signal intensity abnormalities, abnormal peaks at MR spectroscopy, and spinal cord involvement-to further narrow the differential diagnosis. ©RSNA, 2019.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Lopes Resende
- From the Neuroradiology Section, Instituto de Radiologia (InRad), Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HC-FMUSP), R. Dr. Ovídio Pires de Campos 75, São Paulo, SP 05403-010, Brazil (L.L.R., C.d.C.L., L.T.L.); and Neurogenetics Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.R.B.d.P., F.K.)
| | - Anderson Rodrigues Brandão de Paiva
- From the Neuroradiology Section, Instituto de Radiologia (InRad), Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HC-FMUSP), R. Dr. Ovídio Pires de Campos 75, São Paulo, SP 05403-010, Brazil (L.L.R., C.d.C.L., L.T.L.); and Neurogenetics Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.R.B.d.P., F.K.)
| | - Fernando Kok
- From the Neuroradiology Section, Instituto de Radiologia (InRad), Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HC-FMUSP), R. Dr. Ovídio Pires de Campos 75, São Paulo, SP 05403-010, Brazil (L.L.R., C.d.C.L., L.T.L.); and Neurogenetics Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.R.B.d.P., F.K.)
| | - Claudia da Costa Leite
- From the Neuroradiology Section, Instituto de Radiologia (InRad), Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HC-FMUSP), R. Dr. Ovídio Pires de Campos 75, São Paulo, SP 05403-010, Brazil (L.L.R., C.d.C.L., L.T.L.); and Neurogenetics Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.R.B.d.P., F.K.)
| | - Leandro Tavares Lucato
- From the Neuroradiology Section, Instituto de Radiologia (InRad), Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HC-FMUSP), R. Dr. Ovídio Pires de Campos 75, São Paulo, SP 05403-010, Brazil (L.L.R., C.d.C.L., L.T.L.); and Neurogenetics Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.R.B.d.P., F.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Identifying patients with neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease in Singapore using characteristic diffusion-weighted MR images. Neuroradiology 2019; 61:1281-1290. [PMID: 31292692 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-019-02257-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adult-onset neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease (NIID) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder described mainly in the Japanese population, with characteristic DWI abnormalities at the junction between gray and white matter. We identify possible cases of NIID in the picture archive and communication system (PACS) of a tertiary neurological referral hospital in Singapore and describe their radiological features. METHODS The neuroradiology imaging database was reviewed using keyword search of radiological reports to identify patients who had "subcortical U fibre" abnormalities on DWI. MRI were retrospectively reviewed, and those fulfilling inclusion criteria were invited for skin biopsy to detect nuclear inclusions by light and electron microscopy. RESULTS Twelve Chinese patients (nine female; median age 70.5 years) were enrolled. Seven patients were being assessed for dementia and five for other neurological indications. In all patients, DWI showed distinctive subcortical high signal with increased average apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), involving frontal, parietal, and temporal more than occipital lobes; the corpus callosum and external capsule were affected in some patients. On T2-weighted images, cerebral and cerebellar atrophy and white matter hyperintensity of Fazekas grade 2 and above were seen in all patients. Three patients underwent skin biopsy; all were positive for intranuclear hyaline inclusion bodies on either p62 staining or electron microscopy, which are pathognomonic for NIID. CONCLUSION Previously undiagnosed patients with NIID can be identified by searching for abnormalities at the junction between gray and white matter on DWI in PACS and subsequently confirmed by skin biopsy. Radiologists should recognize the distinctive neuroimaging pattern of this dementing disease.
Collapse
|
4
|
Lynch DS, Wade C, Paiva ARBD, John N, Kinsella JA, Merwick Á, Ahmed RM, Warren JD, Mummery CJ, Schott JM, Fox NC, Houlden H, Adams ME, Davagnanam I, Murphy E, Chataway J. Practical approach to the diagnosis of adult-onset leukodystrophies: an updated guide in the genomic era. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2019; 90:543-554. [PMID: 30467211 PMCID: PMC6581077 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2018-319481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Adult-onset leukodystrophies and genetic leukoencephalopathies comprise a diverse group of neurodegenerative disorders of white matter with a wide age of onset and phenotypic spectrum. Patients with white matter abnormalities detected on MRI often present a diagnostic challenge to both general and specialist neurologists. Patients typically present with a progressive syndrome including various combinations of cognitive impairment, movement disorders, ataxia and upper motor neuron signs. There are a number of important and treatable acquired causes for this imaging and clinical presentation. There are also a very large number of genetic causes which due to their relative rarity and sometimes variable and overlapping presentations can be difficult to diagnose. In this review, we provide a structured approach to the diagnosis of inherited disorders of white matter in adults. We describe clinical and radiological clues to aid diagnosis, and we present an overview of both common and rare genetic white matter disorders. We provide advice on testing for acquired causes, on excluding small vessel disease mimics, and detailed advice on metabolic and genetic testing available to the practising neurologist. Common genetic leukoencephalopathies discussed in detail include CSF1R, AARS2, cerebral arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), and mitochondrial and metabolic disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David S Lynch
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK .,Department of Neurology, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Charles Wade
- Department of Neurology, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | | | - Nevin John
- Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Justin A Kinsella
- Department of Neurology, St Vincent's University Hospital University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Áine Merwick
- Department of Neurology, Beaumont Hospital and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rebekah M Ahmed
- Memory and Cognition Clinic, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and the Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jason D Warren
- Dementia Research Centre, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | | | | | - Nick C Fox
- Dementia Research Centre, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Henry Houlden
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Matthew E Adams
- Lysholm Department of Neuroradiology, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Indran Davagnanam
- Lysholm Department of Neuroradiology, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK.,Brain Repair & Rehabilitation, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Elaine Murphy
- Charles Dent Metabolic Unit, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Jeremy Chataway
- Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hope S, Johannessen CH, Aanonsen NO, Strømme P. The investigation of inborn errors of metabolism as an underlying cause of idiopathic intellectual disability in adults in Norway. Eur J Neurol 2015; 23 Suppl 1:36-44. [DOI: 10.1111/ene.12884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Hope
- Department of Neuro Habilitation; Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål; Oslo Norway
- NORMENT; KG Jebsen Centre for Psychosis Research; Institute of Clinical Medicine; University of Oslo; Oslo Norway
| | - C. H. Johannessen
- Department of Neuro Habilitation; Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål; Oslo Norway
| | - N. O. Aanonsen
- Department of Neuro Habilitation; Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål; Oslo Norway
| | - P. Strømme
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences for Children; Women and Children′s Division; Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål; Oslo Norway
- University of Oslo; Oslo Norway
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tourbah A. Biotin and demyelinating diseases--a new connection? Mult Scler 2015; 21:1608-9. [PMID: 26227004 DOI: 10.1177/1352458515599077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2015] [Accepted: 07/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ayman Tourbah
- Service de Neurologie et Faculté de Médecine, CHU de Reims URCA, 51100 Reims, Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et de Neuropsychologie, EA 2027 Paris VIII
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Papassin J, Pierunek J, Corne C, Besson G. Phenylketonuria, an unusual diagnosis of mental retardation in an adult patient. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2015; 171:739-40. [PMID: 26184060 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2015.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2014] [Revised: 04/15/2015] [Accepted: 04/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J Papassin
- Service de neurologie générale, CHU de Grenoble, avenue Maquis-du-Grésivaudan, 38700 La Tronche, France.
| | - J Pierunek
- Laboratoire de biochimie génétique et moléculaire, CHU de Grenoble, 38043 Grenoble cedex 09, France
| | - C Corne
- Laboratoire de biochimie génétique et moléculaire, CHU de Grenoble, 38043 Grenoble cedex 09, France
| | - G Besson
- Service de neurologie générale, CHU de Grenoble, avenue Maquis-du-Grésivaudan, 38700 La Tronche, France
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Weisfeld-Adams JD, Katz Sand IB, Honce JM, Lublin FD. Differential diagnosis of Mendelian and mitochondrial disorders in patients with suspected multiple sclerosis. Brain 2015; 138:517-39. [PMID: 25636970 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awu397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Several single gene disorders share clinical and radiologic characteristics with multiple sclerosis and have the potential to be overlooked in the differential diagnostic evaluation of both adult and paediatric patients with multiple sclerosis. This group includes lysosomal storage disorders, various mitochondrial diseases, other neurometabolic disorders, and several other miscellaneous disorders. Recognition of a single-gene disorder as causal for a patient's 'multiple sclerosis-like' phenotype is critically important for accurate direction of patient management, and evokes broader genetic counselling implications for affected families. Here we review single gene disorders that have the potential to mimic multiple sclerosis, provide an overview of clinical and investigational characteristics of each disorder, and present guidelines for when clinicians should suspect an underlying heritable disorder that requires diagnostic confirmation in a patient with a definite or probable diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James D Weisfeld-Adams
- 1 Division of Clinical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Paediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA 2 Inherited Metabolic Diseases Clinic, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA 3 Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York 10029, USA
| | - Ilana B Katz Sand
- 4 Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York 10029, USA
| | - Justin M Honce
- 5 Department of Radiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - Fred D Lublin
- 4 Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York 10029, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Leite CC, Lucato LT, Santos GT, Kok F, Brandão AR, Castillo M. Imaging of adult leukodystrophies. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2014; 72:625-32. [DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20140095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Leukodystrophies are genetically determined white matter disorders. Even though leukodystrophies essentially affect children in early infancy and childhood, these disorders may affect adults. In adults, leukodystrophies may present a distinct clinical and imaging presentation other than those found in childhood. Clinical awareness of late-onset leukodystrophies should be increased as new therapies emerge. MRI is a useful tool to evaluate white matter disorders and some characteristics findings can help the diagnosis of leukodystrophies. This review article briefly describes the imaging characteristics of the most common adult leukodystrophies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Costa Leite
- Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil; University of North Carolina, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Mak CM, Lee HCH, Chan AYW, Lam CW. Inborn errors of metabolism and expanded newborn screening: review and update. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2014; 50:142-62. [PMID: 24295058 DOI: 10.3109/10408363.2013.847896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) are a phenotypically and genetically heterogeneous group of disorders caused by a defect in a metabolic pathway, leading to malfunctioning metabolism and/or the accumulation of toxic intermediate metabolites. To date, more than 1000 different IEM have been identified. While individually rare, the cumulative incidence has been shown to be upwards of 1 in 800. Clinical presentations are protean, complicating diagnostic pathways. IEM are present in all ethnic groups and across every age. Some IEM are amenable to treatment, with promising outcomes. However, high clinical suspicion alone is not sufficient to reduce morbidities and mortalities. In the last decade, due to the advent of tandem mass spectrometry, expanded newborn screening (NBS) has become a mandatory public health strategy in most developed and developing countries. The technology allows inexpensive simultaneous detection of more than 30 different metabolic disorders in one single blood spot specimen at a cost of about USD 10 per baby, with commendable analytical accuracy and precision. The sensitivity and specificity of this method can be up to 99% and 99.995%, respectively, for most amino acid disorders, organic acidemias, and fatty acid oxidation defects. Cost-effectiveness studies have confirmed that the savings achieved through the use of expanded NBS programs are significantly greater than the costs of implementation. The adverse effects of false positive results are negligible in view of the economic health benefits generated by expanded NBS and these could be minimized through increased education, better communication, and improved technologies. Local screening agencies should be given the autonomy to develop their screening programs in order to keep pace with international advancements. The development of biochemical genetics is closely linked with expanded NBS. With ongoing advancements in nanotechnology and molecular genomics, the field of biochemical genetics is still expanding rapidly. The potential of tandem mass spectrometry is extending to cover more disorders. Indeed, the use of genetic markers in T-cell receptor excision circles for severe combined immunodeficiency is one promising example. NBS represents the highest volume of genetic testing. It is more than a test and it warrants systematic healthcare service delivery across the pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases. There should be a comprehensive reporting system entailing genetic counselling as well as short-term and long-term follow-up. It is essential to integrate existing clinical IEM services with the expanded NBS program to enable close communication between the laboratory, clinicians, and allied health parties. In this review, we will discuss the history of IEM, its clinical presentations in children and adult patients, and its incidence among different ethnicities; the history and recent expansion of NBS, its cost-effectiveness, associated pros and cons, and the ethical issues that can arise; the analytical aspects of tandem mass spectrometry and post-analytical perspectives regarding result interpretation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Miu Mak
- Chemical Pathology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Princess Margaret Hospital , Hong Kong, SAR , China and
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ahmed RM, Murphy E, Davagnanam I, Parton M, Schott JM, Mummery CJ, Rohrer JD, Lachmann RH, Houlden H, Fox NC, Chataway J. A practical approach to diagnosing adult onset leukodystrophies. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2014; 85:770-81. [PMID: 24357685 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2013-305888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R M Ahmed
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Dementia Research Centre, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery and UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - E Murphy
- The Charles Dent Metabolic Unit, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery and UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - I Davagnanam
- Lysholm Department of Neuroradiology, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery and Brain Repair and Rehabilitation unit UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - M Parton
- Queen Square Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery and UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - J M Schott
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Dementia Research Centre, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery and UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - C J Mummery
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Dementia Research Centre, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery and UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - J D Rohrer
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Dementia Research Centre, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery and UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - R H Lachmann
- The Charles Dent Metabolic Unit, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery and UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - H Houlden
- Department of Molecular Neurosciences, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery and UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - N C Fox
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Dementia Research Centre, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery and UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - J Chataway
- Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery and UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Adult-onset leukodystrophy: review of 3 clinicopathologic phenotypes and a proposed classification. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2013; 72:1090-103. [PMID: 24128683 DOI: 10.1097/nen.0000000000000008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult-onset leukodystrophies are clinically and pathologically heterogeneous diseases, and the overlapping morphologic features among these disorders can lead to confusion in pathologic classification. We report 3 recent autopsy cases that illustrate the clinicopathologic distinction between the 3 entities. The first, autosomal dominant leukodystrophy, is characterized clinically by early autonomic dysfunction and genetically by LMNB1 (lamin B1 gene) duplication. Recently, another clinical subtype emerged without the early autonomic dysfunction but with a similar genetic abnormality documented in 1 family. We reviewed the reported autopsy cases and show that both clinical subtypes share distinctive pathologic features. Other forms of adult-onset leukodystrophy can be classified based on the histologic evidence of the primary pathologic processes. A case of axonopathy with secondary demyelination serves as a prototype for adult-onset leukoencephalopathy/leukodystrophy with axonal spheroids; the genetic mutation of CSF1R (colony stimulating factor 1R) was recently discovered in patients with this disorder. A case of a primary demyelinating disease with no other distinctive pathologic features is designated as orthochromatic leukodystrophy. Pigmented glia can be present in both of the latter two categories and should not be used as a differentiating diagnostic feature. Based on the observations of our cases and literature review, we propose an algorithm for a practical diagnostic approach to adult-onset leukodystrophies.
Collapse
|
13
|
Debs R, Froissart R, Aubourg P, Papeix C, Douillard C, Degos B, Fontaine B, Audoin B, Lacour A, Said G, Vanier MT, Sedel F. Krabbe disease in adults: phenotypic and genotypic update from a series of 11 cases and a review. J Inherit Metab Dis 2013. [PMID: 23197103 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-012-9560-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Krabbe disease usually presents as a severe leukodystrophy in early infancy and childhood. From a series of 11 patients and 30 cases previously reported in the literature we describe the clinical, radiological, electrophysiological and genetic features of adult Krabbe disease. Patients diagnosed after the age of 16 years were included in this study. They were further divided into three groups depending on age at symptoms onset: (1) childhood onset cases (n = 7); (2) adolescence onset cases (n = 6) and adult onset cases (n = 28). Overall, 96 % of patients in the adult-onset group presented with signs of pyramidal tracts dysfunction. Spastic paraparesis or tetraparesis became prominent in all cases. A peripheral neuropathy was present in 59 % of cases and was most often demyelinating (80 %). Other clinical signs encompassed dysarthria (31 %), cerebellar ataxia (27 %), pes cavus (27 %), deep sensory signs (23 %), tongue atrophy (15 %), optic neuropathy (12 %), cognitive decline (12 %). Cerebrospinal fluid protein concentration was moderately increased in 54 % of patients. Patients in the adolescent- and childhood-onset groups had similar presentations but were more likely to display optic neuropathy (33 % and 57 %) and cerebellar ataxia (50 % and 57 %). In the adult-onset group, the disease progressed slowly over more than 10 years, but a rapid course was observed in two patients. Abnormalities of brain MRI was similar in the three groups and included high signals of cortico-spinal tracts (94 % of cases), hyper-intensities of optic radiations (89 %) and hyper-intensities or atrophy of the posterior part of the corpus callosum (60 %). No clear genotype-phenotype relationship could be demonstrated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rabab Debs
- Department of Neurology, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris and University Pierre&Marie Curie, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Fraidakis MJ. Psychiatric manifestations in cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis. Transl Psychiatry 2013; 3:e302. [PMID: 24002088 PMCID: PMC3784765 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2013.76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 07/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) is a rare and severe, but treatable, inborn disorder of bile acid biosynthesis and sterol storage with autosomal recessive inheritance and variable clinical presentation. CTX treatment consists of chenodeoxycholic acid and must be started as early as possible to prevent permanent disability. Psychiatric manifestations are rare and non-specific, and often lead to significant diagnostic and treatment delay. Therefore, better recognition of the gamut of psychiatric manifestations in CTX can diminish the risk of misdiagnosis and irreversible neurological deterioration. We hereby describe the psychiatric features in CTX. A complete review of all published cases of CTX in the medical literature was undertaken and the case reports with psychiatric presentation were collected and analyzed. We also describe the psychiatric features in relation to the neurological semeiology in six patients with CTX diagnosed at the La Salpêtrière Hospital. We conclude that psychiatric manifestations in CTX follow a bimodal/bitemporal pattern, appearing early in the disease course in the form of a behavioral/personality disorder associated with learning difficulties or mental retardation, or manifesting in advanced disease in the setting of dementia as rich neuropsychiatric syndromes, such as frontal, orbitofrontal or frontotemporal syndromes of cortico-subcortical dementia encompassing behavioral/personality disturbance, affective/mood disorders or psychotic disorders. Behavioral/personality disturbance in childhood or adolescence, especially when accompanied by learning difficulties, should therefore lead to further investigation to exclude CTX, as early diagnosis and treatment is critical for prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M J Fraidakis
- Federation of Neurology, La Salpêtrière Hospital, Groupe Hopsitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière (GHPS), Paris, France,Department of Neurogenetics, La Salpêtrière Hospital, Groupe Hopsitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière (GHPS), Paris, France,Fédération de Neurologie, Hôpital de la Salpêtrière, Groupement Hospitalier Universitaire Est Pitié-Salpêtrière (GHPS), Boulevard de l'Hôpital 47–83, 75651 Paris, France. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) are caused by mutations in genes coding for enzymes and other proteins involved in cell metabolism. Many IEM can be treated effectively. Although IEM have usually been considered pediatric diseases, they can present at any age, mostly with neurological and psychiatric symptoms, and therefore constitute an integral subspeciality of neurology. However, although they are increasingly being recognized, IEM remain rare, and the care for patients should be optimized in specialized reference centers. Since the number of different diseases is very large, the diagnostic approach needs to be rigorous, starting at the clinics and calling upon the additional help of neuroradiology, biochemistry and molecular biology. In practice, it is important for the neurologist to recognize: (1) when to start suspecting an IEM; and (2) how to correlate a given clinical presentation with one of the five major groups of diseases affecting the nervous system. These five groups may be classified as: (a) energy metabolism disorders such as respiratory chain disorders, pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency, GLUT1 deficiency, fatty-acid β-oxidation defects, and disorders involving key cofactors such as electron transfer flavoprotein, thiamine, biotin, riboflavin, vitamin E and coenzyme Q10; (b) intoxication syndromes such as porphyrias, urea-cycle defects, homocystinurias, organic acidurias and amino acidopathies; (c) lipid-storage disorders such as lysosomal storage disorders (Krabbe disease, metachromatic leukodystrophy, Niemann - Pick disease type C, Fabry disease and Gaucher's disease), peroxisomal disorders (adrenomyeloneuropathy, Refsum disease, disorders of pristanic acid metabolism, peroxisome biogenesis disorders), Tangier disease and cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis; (d) metal-storage diseases such as iron, copper and manganese metabolic disorders; and (e) neurotransmitter metabolism defects, including defects of serotonin, dopamine and glycine metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Sedel
- Département de Neurologie, centre de référence maladies lysosomales, Unité fonctionnelle neurométabolique bio-clinique et génétique, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, 47 Boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75651 Paris cedex 13, France.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Salsano E, Farina L, Lamperti C, Piscosquito G, Salerno F, Morandi L, Carrara F, Lamantea E, Zeviani M, Uziel G, Savoiardo M, Pareyson D. Adult-onset leukodystrophies from respiratory chain disorders: do they exist? J Neurol 2013; 260:1617-23. [PMID: 23358625 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-013-6844-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2012] [Revised: 01/09/2013] [Accepted: 01/11/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Respiratory chain disorders (RCDs) have been included in the differential diagnosis of adult-onset leukodystrophies. Here, we first report a 32-year-old female with an atypical, adult-onset, non-syndromic RCD due to a mitochondrial DNA deletion and manifesting as complicated ataxia. A 'leukodystrophic' pattern was found on brain MRI, but it was neither isolated nor predominant because of the presence of overt basal ganglia and infratentorial lesions, which led us to the proper diagnosis. Subsequently, we evaluated our series of patients with RCDs in order to verify whether a 'leukodystrophic' pattern with little or no involvement of deep grey structures and brainstem may be found in adult-onset RCDs, as reported in children. Among 52 patients with adult-onset RCDs, no case with a 'leukodystrophic' pattern was found, apart from three cases with a classical phenotype of mitochondrial neurogastrointestinal encephalopathy. In addition, no case of RCDs was found among six cases of adult-onset leukodystrophy of unknown origin and at least one feature suggestive of mitochondrial disease. The review of the literature was in agreement with these findings. Thus, we provide evidence that, unlike in children, RCDs should not be included in the differential diagnosis of adult-onset leukodystrophies, except when there are additional MRI findings or clinical features which unequivocally point towards a mitochondrial disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ettore Salsano
- Unit of Neurology VIII, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, via Celoria 11, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kleinfeld K, Mobley B, Hedera P, Wegner A, Sriram S, Pawate S. Adult-onset leukoencephalopathy with neuroaxonal spheroids and pigmented glia: report of five cases and a new mutation. J Neurol 2012; 260:558-71. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-012-6680-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2012] [Revised: 08/30/2012] [Accepted: 09/13/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
18
|
Ostrowska M, Banaszkiewicz K, Kiławiec A, Róg T, Lütjohann D, Szczudlik A. Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis: a rare cause of spinocerebellar syndrome. Neurol Neurochir Pol 2012; 45:600-603. [PMID: 22212991 DOI: 10.1016/s0028-3843(14)60128-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A 34-year-old patient demonstrating pyramidal and cerebellar signs, accompanied by epilepsy, peripheral neuropathy, mental retardation and bilateral cataract was diagnosed with cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis based on the clinical picture, magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and serum sterol analysis. Tendon xanthomas were not observed in this case. After establishing the diagnosis, treatment with chenodeoxycholic acid and statin was introduced. During the next two years of the follow-up, serum cholestanol and 7α-hydroxycholesterol levels decreased in response to the therapy, but this was not reflected in the patient's neurological condition, which was slowly progressing. Treatment effectiveness in cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis is variable, notably better in patients who had started therapy before the injury to the nervous system took place. The present case report points to cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis as a rare cause of spinocerebellar syndrome, which might be treatable if diagnosed in early life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Ostrowska
- Department of Neurology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland.
| | | | - Anna Kiławiec
- Department of Neurology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Teresa Róg
- Department of Neurology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Dieter Lütjohann
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Clinics of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andrzej Szczudlik
- Department of Neurology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Nelson PT, Head E, Schmitt FA, Davis PR, Neltner JH, Jicha GA, Abner EL, Smith CD, Van Eldik LJ, Kryscio RJ, Scheff SW. Alzheimer's disease is not "brain aging": neuropathological, genetic, and epidemiological human studies. Acta Neuropathol 2011; 121:571-87. [PMID: 21516511 PMCID: PMC3179861 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-011-0826-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 225] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2011] [Revised: 04/12/2011] [Accepted: 04/13/2011] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Human studies are reviewed concerning whether "aging"-related mechanisms contribute to Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. AD is defined by specific neuropathology: neuritic amyloid plaques and neocortical neurofibrillary tangles. AD pathology is driven by genetic factors related not to aging per se, but instead to the amyloid precursor protein (APP). In contrast to genes involved in APP-related mechanisms, there is no firm connection between genes implicated in human "accelerated aging" diseases (progerias) and AD. The epidemiology of AD in advanced age is highly relevant but deceptively challenging to address given the low autopsy rates in most countries. In extreme old age, brain diseases other than AD approximate AD prevalence while the impact of AD pathology appears to peak by age 95 and decline thereafter. Many distinct brain diseases other than AD afflict older human brains and contribute to cognitive impairment. Additional prevalent pathologies include cerebrovascular disease and hippocampal sclerosis, both high-morbidity brain diseases that appear to peak in incidence later than AD chronologically. Because of these common brain diseases of extreme old age, the epidemiology differs between clinical "dementia" and the subset of dementia cases with AD pathology. Additional aging-associated mechanisms for cognitive decline such as diabetes and synapse loss have been linked to AD and these hypotheses are discussed. Criteria are proposed to define an "aging-linked" disease, and AD fails all of these criteria. In conclusion, it may be most fruitful to focus attention on specific pathways involved in AD rather than attributing it to an inevitable consequence of aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter T Nelson
- Department of Pathology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536-0230, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hayashi T, Nakamura M, Ichiba M, Matsuda M, Kato M, Shiokawa N, Shimo H, Tomiyasu A, Mori S, Tomiyasu Y, Ishizuka T, Inamori Y, Okamoto Y, Umehara F, Arimura K, Nakabeppu Y, Sano A. Adult-type metachromatic leukodystrophy with compound heterozygous ARSA mutations: a case report and phenotypic comparison with a previously reported case. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2011; 65:105-8. [PMID: 21265945 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1819.2010.02169.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disease caused by a deficiency of arylsulfatase A. MLD is a heterogeneous disease with variable age at onset and variable clinical features. We evaluated a 33-year-old female patient who developed manifestations of disinhibitory behavior. She was diagnosed with MLD by genetic analysis, which revealed compound heterozygous ARSA missense mutations (p.G99D and p.T409I). The same combination of mutations was previously reported in a Japanese patient with similar symptoms. We performed additional, detailed neuropsychological tests with functional imaging on the current patient that demonstrated frontal lobe dysfunction. These results indicate that the mutations have important implications for genotype-phenotype correlation in MLD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takehiro Hayashi
- Department of Psychiatry, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Knowledge of the metabolic and genetic basis of known and previously unknown leukodystrophies is constantly increasing, opening new treatment options such as enzyme replacement or cell-based therapies. This brief review highlights some recent work, particularly emphasizing results from studies in adulthood leukodystrophies. RECENT FINDINGS Evidence from recent studies suggests increasing importance of metabolic dysfunctions, for example, in peroxisomal lipid metabolism or energy homeostasis, influencing axonal integrity and oligodendrocyte function and leading to white matter demyelination. In addition, diagnostic and therapeutic progress in metachromatic leukodystrophy, X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy, Krabbe diseases and other rare leukodystrophies with late onset are summarized. SUMMARY Better understanding of leukodystrophies in neurological routine practice is of crucial importance for differentiating between other white matter diseases such as toxic, inflammatory or vascular leukoencephalopathies. Many leukodystrophies are particularly important to recognize because specific treatments already exist or are currently under investigation. The article also provides an overview of currently known leukodystrophies in adulthood.
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been used for three decades as therapy for lysosomal storage diseases. Stable engraftment following transplantation has the potential to provide a source of an enzyme for the life of a patient. Recombinant enzyme is available for disorders that do not have a primary neurologic component. However, for diseases affecting the central nervous system (CNS), intravenous enzyme is ineffective due to its inability to cross the blood-brain barrier. For selected lysosomal disorders, including metachromatic leukodystrophy and globoid cell leukodystrophy, disease phenotype and the extent of disease at the time of transplantation are of fundamental importance in determining outcomes. Adrenoleukodystrophy is an X-linked, peroxisomal disorder, and in approximately 40% of cases a progressive, inflammatory condition develops in the CNS. Early in the course of the disease, allogeneic transplantation can arrest the disease process in cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy, while more advanced patients do poorly. In many of these cases, the utilization of cord blood grafts allows expedient transplantation, which can be critical in achieving optimal outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Orchard
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
The leukoencephalopathies encompass a heterogeneous group of disorders that involve the brain white matter. The cause may be acquired or inherited; in the latter case, mutations have been found in genes that encode protein components of the myelin membrane or enzymes implicated in the turnover of myelin. In patients with cognitive dysfunction and white matter lesions evident on MRI, analysis of the type, pattern, and distribution of lesions can enable a presumptive diagnosis, which can be confirmed by biochemical and/or molecular testing. The presence or absence of peripheral neuropathy and/or autonomic dysfunction can be a helpful clue in differentiating individual diagnoses. Often, patients may be suspected of having and being initially treated inappropriately for a case of primary or secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. In a significant number of patients, the diagnosis may not be made, even after an extensive search. Establishing the cause enables counseling regarding prognosis, family planning, monitoring for disease-related complications, and introducing therapy, when available.
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
Leukoencephalopathies in adults are frequent and exhibit highly variable aetiology, including multiple acquired causes such as inflammatory, vascular or toxic diseases and neoplasias. In contrast leukodystrophies are genetically determined, chronic progressive myelin disorders with a variable pathogenetic background and a great diversity of clinical and paraclinical findings. Some diseases, namely those with an additional inborn error of metabolism, are treatable. Genetic counselling appears to be of major importance for patients and their families. In the light of numerous acquired adulthood leukoencephalopathies a clear delineation of late-onset genetic leukodystrophies is necessary. Clinical symptoms and MRI patterns of some of the major leukodystrophies are reported, including possibilities of biochemical and genetic testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Weber
- Klinik für Neurologie, Marienkrankenhaus Hamburg, 22087 Hamburg.
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Tourbah A, Galanaud D. [MRI in diagnosis and follow-up of patients with adult metabolic disease: contribution of new techniques]. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2010; 167:216-20. [PMID: 20338606 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2010.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2009] [Revised: 01/09/2010] [Accepted: 01/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Conventional MRI allows diagnostic and prognosis approaches for patients with suspected metabolic disease. BACKGROUND Bilateral and symmetrical abnormalities are the most suggestive aspects. Signal characteristics (intensity, difference of signal on various sequences), lesion extension and location provide important etiological information. Non-conventional MRI techniques are particularly interesting for pathophysiology. Different MRI modalities offer promising techniques for monitoring treatments and patient follow-up. CONCLUSION Combining different MRI modalities can contribute to the diagnosis and help improve understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of adult metabolic diseases; they offer promising options for the prognosis and treatment follow-up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Tourbah
- Service de neurologie, faculté de médecine, université Champagne-Ardenne, CHU de Reims, France.
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Clarke JTR. RECOGNITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LYSOSOMAL STORAGE DISEASES IN ADULTS. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2009. [DOI: 10.1212/01.con.0000348881.16694.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
27
|
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Marie Saudubray
- Departement des maladies métaboliques, Federation des maladies du système nerveux Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris et Université Pierre et Marie Curie (Paris VI), Paris, France.
- , 22 rue Juliette Lamber, Paris, 75017, France.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Rapid onset frontal leukodystrophy with decreased diffusion coefficient and neuroaxonal spheroids. J Neurol 2009; 256:1649-54. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-009-5172-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2009] [Revised: 05/03/2009] [Accepted: 05/06/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
29
|
Saudubray JM, Sedel F. Les maladies héréditaires du métabolisme à l’âge adulte. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2009; 70:14-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2008.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2008] [Accepted: 12/09/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
30
|
Mochel F, Sedel F, Vanderver A, Engelke UFH, Barritault J, Yang BZ, Kulkarni B, Adams DR, Clot F, Ding JH, Kaneski CR, Verheijen FW, Smits BW, Seguin F, Brice A, Vanier MT, Huizing M, Schiffmann R, Durr A, Wevers RA. Cerebellar ataxia with elevated cerebrospinal free sialic acid (CAFSA). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 132:801-9. [PMID: 19153153 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awn355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
In order to identify new metabolic abnormalities in patients with complex neurodegenerative disorders of unknown aetiology, we performed high resolution in vitro proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy on patient cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples. We identified five adult patients, including two sisters, with significantly elevated free sialic acid in the CSF compared to both the cohort of patients with diseases of unknown aetiology (n = 144; P < 0.001) and a control group of patients with well-defined diseases (n = 91; P < 0.001). All five patients displayed cerebellar ataxia, with peripheral neuropathy and cognitive decline or noteworthy behavioural changes. Cerebral MRI showed mild to moderate cerebellar atrophy (5/5) as well as white matter abnormalities in the cerebellum including the peridentate region (4/5), and at the periventricular level (3/5). Two-dimensional gel analyses revealed significant hyposialylation of transferrin in CSF of all patients compared to age-matched controls (P < 0.001)--a finding not present in the CSF of patients with Salla disease, the most common free sialic acid storage disorder. Free sialic acid content was normal in patients' urine and cultured fibroblasts as were plasma glycosylation patterns of transferrin. Analysis of the ganglioside profile in peripheral nerve biopsies of two out of five patients was also normal. Sequencing of four candidate genes in the free sialic acid biosynthetic pathway did not reveal any mutation. We therefore identified a new free sialic acid syndrome in which cerebellar ataxia is the leading symptom. The term CAFSA is suggested (cerebellar ataxia with free sialic acid).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Mochel
- INSERM UMR S679, Hôpital de la Salpêtrière, 47 Bld de l'Hôpital, Bâtiment Nouvelle Pharmacie-4ème étage, 75013 Paris, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
|