1
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Selvadurai LP, Perlman SL, Ashizawa T, Wilmot GR, Onyike CU, Rosenthal LS, Shakkottai VG, Paulson HL, Subramony SH, Bushara KO, Kuo SH, Dietiker C, Geschwind MD, Nelson AB, Gomez CM, Opal P, Zesiewicz TA, Hawkins T, Yacoubian TA, Nopoulos PC, Sha SJ, Morrison PE, Figueroa KP, Pulst SM, Schmahmann JD. The Cerebellar Cognitive Affective/Schmahmann Syndrome Scale in Spinocerebellar Ataxias. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 23:1411-1425. [PMID: 38165578 PMCID: PMC11217149 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-023-01651-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
The Cerebellar Cognitive Affective/Schmahmann Syndrome (CCAS) manifests as impaired executive control, linguistic processing, visual spatial function, and affect regulation. The CCAS has been described in the spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs), but its prevalence is unknown. We analyzed results of the CCAS/Schmahmann Scale (CCAS-S), developed to detect and quantify CCAS, in two natural history studies of 309 individuals Symptomatic for SCA1, SCA2, SCA3, SCA6, SCA7, or SCA8, 26 individuals Pre-symptomatic for SCA1 or SCA3, and 37 Controls. We compared total raw scores, domain scores, and total fail scores between Symptomatic, Pre-symptomatic, and Control cohorts, and between SCA types. We calculated scale sensitivity and selectivity based on CCAS category designation among Symptomatic individuals and Controls, and correlated CCAS-S performance against age and education, and in Symptomatic patients, against genetic repeat length, onset age, disease duration, motor ataxia, depression, and fatigue. Definite CCAS was identified in 46% of the Symptomatic group. False positive rate among Controls was 5.4%. Symptomatic individuals had poorer global CCAS-S performance than Controls, accounting for age and education. The domains of semantic fluency, phonemic fluency, and category switching that tap executive function and linguistic processing consistently separated Symptomatic individuals from Controls. CCAS-S scores correlated most closely with motor ataxia. Controls were similar to Pre-symptomatic individuals whose nearness to symptom onset was unknown. The use of the CCAS-S identifies a high CCAS prevalence in a large cohort of SCA patients, underscoring the utility of the scale and the notion that the CCAS is the third cornerstone of clinical ataxiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louisa P Selvadurai
- Department of Neurology, Ataxia Center, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology Unit, Laboratory for Neuroanatomy and Cerebellar Neurobiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 2000, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Susan L Perlman
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Tetsuo Ashizawa
- Department of Neurology, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - George R Wilmot
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chiadi U Onyike
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Liana S Rosenthal
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Vikram G Shakkottai
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Henry L Paulson
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sub H Subramony
- Department of Neurology, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Khalaf O Bushara
- Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Sheng-Han Kuo
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cameron Dietiker
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Alexandra B Nelson
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Puneet Opal
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Theresa A Zesiewicz
- Department of Neurology, University of South Florida Ataxia Research Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Trevor Hawkins
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Talene A Yacoubian
- Department of Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Peggy C Nopoulos
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Sharon J Sha
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Peter E Morrison
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Karla P Figueroa
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Stefan M Pulst
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jeremy D Schmahmann
- Department of Neurology, Ataxia Center, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology Unit, Laboratory for Neuroanatomy and Cerebellar Neurobiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 2000, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
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2
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Grisoli M, Nigri A, Medina Carrion JP, Palermo S, Demichelis G, Giacosa C, Mongelli A, Fichera M, Nanetti L, Mariotti C. Tracking longitudinal thalamic volume changes during early stages of SCA1 and SCA2. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2024:10.1007/s11547-024-01839-2. [PMID: 38954239 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-024-01839-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Spinocerebellar ataxia SCA1 and SCA2 are adult-onset hereditary disorders, due to triplet CAG expansion in their respective causative genes. The pathophysiology of SCA1 and SCA2 suggests alterations of cerebello-thalamo-cortical pathway and its connections to the basal ganglia. In this framework, thalamic integrity is crucial for shaping efficient whole-brain dynamics and functions. The aims of the study are to identify structural changes in thalamic nuclei in presymptomatic and symptomatic SCA1 and SCA2 patients and to assess disease progression within a 1-year interval. MATERIAL AND METHODS A prospective 1-year clinical and MRI assessment was conducted in 27 presymptomatic and 23 clinically manifest mutation carriers for SCA1 and SCA2 expansions. Cross-sectional and longitudinal changes of thalamic nuclei volume were investigated in SCA1 and SCA2 individuals and in healthy participants (n = 20). RESULTS Both SCA1 and SCA2 patients had significant atrophy in the majority of thalamic nuclei, except for the posterior and partly medial nuclei. The 1-year longitudinal evaluation showed a specific pattern of atrophy in ventral and posterior thalamus, detectable even at the presymptomatic stage of the disease. CONCLUSION For the first time in vivo, our exploratory study has shown that different thalamic nuclei are involved at different stages of the degenerative process in both SCA1 and SCA2. It is therefore possible that thalamic alterations might significantly contribute to the progression of the disease years before overt clinical manifestations occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Grisoli
- Neuroradiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Nigri
- Neuroradiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, Milan, Italy.
| | - Jean Paul Medina Carrion
- Neuroradiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Palermo
- Neuroradiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, Milan, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Greta Demichelis
- Neuroradiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Giacosa
- Neuroradiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Mongelli
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Mario Fichera
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Nanetti
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Caterina Mariotti
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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3
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Costa RG, Conceição A, Matos CA, Nóbrega C. The polyglutamine protein ATXN2: from its molecular functions to its involvement in disease. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:415. [PMID: 38877004 PMCID: PMC11178924 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06812-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
A CAG repeat sequence in the ATXN2 gene encodes a polyglutamine (polyQ) tract within the ataxin-2 (ATXN2) protein, showcasing a complex landscape of functions that have been progressively unveiled over recent decades. Despite significant progresses in the field, a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms governed by ATXN2 remains elusive. This multifaceted protein emerges as a key player in RNA metabolism, stress granules dynamics, endocytosis, calcium signaling, and the regulation of the circadian rhythm. The CAG overexpansion within the ATXN2 gene produces a protein with an extended poly(Q) tract, inducing consequential alterations in conformational dynamics which confer a toxic gain and/or partial loss of function. Although overexpanded ATXN2 is predominantly linked to spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2), intermediate expansions are also implicated in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and parkinsonism. While the molecular intricacies await full elucidation, SCA2 presents ATXN2-associated pathological features, encompassing autophagy impairment, RNA-mediated toxicity, heightened oxidative stress, and disruption of calcium homeostasis. Presently, SCA2 remains incurable, with patients reliant on symptomatic and supportive treatments. In the pursuit of therapeutic solutions, various studies have explored avenues ranging from pharmacological drugs to advanced therapies, including cell or gene-based approaches. These endeavours aim to address the root causes or counteract distinct pathological features of SCA2. This review is intended to provide an updated compendium of ATXN2 functions, delineate the associated pathological mechanisms, and present current perspectives on the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael G Costa
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal.
- PhD program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal.
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal.
| | - André Conceição
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal
- PhD program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Coimbra, Portugal
- Champalimaud Research Program, Champalimaud Center for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carlos A Matos
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal
| | - Clévio Nóbrega
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal.
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal.
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Cabeza-Ruiz R, Velázquez-Pérez L, Pérez-Rodríguez R, Reetz K. ConvNets for automatic detection of polyglutamine SCAs from brain MRIs: state of the art applications. Med Biol Eng Comput 2023; 61:1-24. [PMID: 36385616 DOI: 10.1007/s11517-022-02714-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Polyglutamine spinocerebellar ataxias (polyQ SCAs) are a group of neurodegenerative diseases, clinically and genetically heterogeneous, characterized by loss of balance and motor coordination due to dysfunction of the cerebellum and its connections. The diagnosis of each type of polyQ SCA, alongside with genetic tests, includes medical images analysis, and its automation may help specialists to distinguish between each type. Convolutional neural networks (ConvNets or CNNs) have been recently used for medical image processing, with outstanding results. In this work, we present the main clinical and imaging features of polyglutamine SCAs, and the basics of CNNs. Finally, we review studies that have used this approach to automatically process brain medical images and may be applied to SCAs detection. We conclude by discussing the possible limitations and opportunities of using ConvNets for SCAs diagnose in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luis Velázquez-Pérez
- Cuban Academy of Sciences, La Habana, Cuba
- Center for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias, Holguín, Cuba
| | - Roberto Pérez-Rodríguez
- CAD/CAM Study Center, University of Holguín, Holguín, Cuba
- Cuban Academy of Sciences, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Kathrin Reetz
- Department of Neurology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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5
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Becker-Bense S, Kaiser L, Becker R, Feil K, Muth C, Albert NL, Unterrainer M, Bartenstein P, Strupp M, Dieterich M. Acetyl-DL-leucine in cerebellar ataxia ([ 18F]-FDG-PET study): how does a cerebellar disorder influence cortical sensorimotor networks? J Neurol 2023; 270:44-56. [PMID: 35876876 PMCID: PMC9813104 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11252-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to deepen our insights into central compensatory processes of brain networks in patients with cerebellar ataxia (CA) before and with treatment with acetyl-DL-leucine (AL) by means of resting-state [18F]-FDG-PET brain imaging. METHODS Retrospective analyses of [18F]-FDG-PET data in 22 patients with CA (with vestibular and ocular motor disturbances) of different etiologies who were scanned before (PET A) and on AL treatment (PET B). Group subtraction analyses, e.g., for responders and non-responders, comparisons with healthy controls and correlation analyses of regional cerebral glucose metabolism (rCGM) with symptom duration, ataxia (SARA) and quality of life (QoL) scores were calculated. RESULTS Prior to treatment rCGM was consistently downregulated at the cerebellar level and increased in multisensory cortical areas, e.g., somatosensory, primary and secondary visual (including V5, precuneus), secondary vestibular (temporal gyrus, anterior insula), and premotor/supplementary motor areas. With AL (PET B vs. A) cerebellar hypometabolism was deepened and sensorimotor hypermetabolism increased only in responders with clinical benefit, but not for the non-responders and the whole CA group. A positive correlation of ataxia improvement with rCGM was found in visual and vestibular cortices, a negative correlation in cerebellar and brainstem areas. QoL showed a positive correlation with rCGM in the cerebellum and symptom duration in premotor and somatosensory areas. CONCLUSIONS Central compensatory processes in CA mainly involve multisensory visual, vestibular, and somatosensory networks as well as premotor/primary motor areas at the cortical level. The enhanced divergence of cortical sensorimotor up- and cerebellar downregulation with AL in responders could reflect amplification of inhibitory cerebellar mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Becker-Bense
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.
| | - Lena Kaiser
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Regina Becker
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina Feil
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Carolin Muth
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Nathalie L Albert
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Marcus Unterrainer
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Bartenstein
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Munich Cluster of Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Strupp
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Marianne Dieterich
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Munich Cluster of Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
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6
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Rawat V, Tyagi R, Singh I, Das P, Srivastava AK, Makharia GK, Sharma U. Cerebellar Abnormalities on Proton MR Spectroscopy and Imaging in Patients With Gluten Ataxia: A Pilot Study. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:782579. [PMID: 35655925 PMCID: PMC9152097 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.782579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gluten ataxia is a rare immune-mediated neurological disorder caused by the ingestion of gluten. The diagnosis is not straightforward as antibodies are present in only up to 38% of patients, but often at lower titers. The symptoms of ataxia may be mild at the onset but lead to permanent damage if remain untreated. It is characterized by damage to the cerebellum however, the pathophysiology of the disease is not clearly understood. The present study investigated the neurochemical profile of vermis and right cerebellum and structural changes in various brain regions of patients with gluten ataxia (n = 6, age range 40–65 years) and compared it with healthy controls (n = 10, 40–55 years). Volumetric 3-D T1 and T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the three planes (axial, coronal, and sagittal) of the whole brain and single-voxel 1H- magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) of the vermis and right cerebellum were acquired on 3 T human MR scanner. The metabolite concentrations were estimated using LC Model (6.1–4A) while brain volumes were estimated using the online tool volBrain pipeline and CERES and corrected for partial volumes. The levels of neuro-metabolites (N-acetyl aspartate + N-acetyl aspartate glutamate, glycerophosphocholine + phosphocholine, and total creatine) were found to be significantly lower in vermis, while N-acetyl aspartate + N-acetyl aspartate glutamate and glycerophosphocholine + phosphocholine was lower in cerebellum regions in the patients with gluten ataxia compared to healthy controls. A significant reduction in the white matter of (total brain, cerebellum, and cerebrum); reduction in the volumes of cerebellum lobe (X) and thalamus while lateral ventricles were increased in the patients with gluten ataxia compared to healthy controls. The reduced neuronal metabolites along with structural changes in the brain suggested neuronal degeneration in the patients with gluten ataxia. Our preliminary findings may be useful in understanding the gluten-induced cerebral damage and indicated that MRI and MRS may serve as a non-invasive useful tool in the early diagnosis, thereby enabling better management of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishwa Rawat
- Department of NMR and MRI Facility, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ritu Tyagi
- Department of NMR and MRI Facility, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Inder Singh
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Prasenjit Das
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Govind K. Makharia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Uma Sharma
- Department of NMR and MRI Facility, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
- *Correspondence: Uma Sharma
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7
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Update on Paraneoplastic Cerebellar Degeneration. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11111414. [PMID: 34827413 PMCID: PMC8615604 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11111414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose of review: To provide an update on paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration (PCD), the involved antibodies and tumors, as well as management strategies. Recent findings: PCD represents the second most common presentation of the recently established class of immune mediated cerebellar ataxias (IMCAs). Although rare in general, PCD is one of the most frequent paraneoplastic presentations and characterized clinically by a rapidly progressive cerebellar syndrome. In recent years, several antibodies have been described in association with the clinical syndrome related to PCD; their clinical significance, however, has yet to be determined. The 2021 updated diagnostic criteria for paraneoplastic neurologic symptoms help to establish the diagnosis of PCD, direct cancer screening, and to evaluate the presence of these newly identified antibodies. Recognition of the clinical syndrome and prompt identification of a specific antibody are essential for early detection of an underlying malignancy and initiation of an appropriate treatment, which represents the best opportunity to modulate the course of the disease. As clinical symptoms can precede tumor diagnosis by years, co-occurrence of specific symptoms and antibodies should prompt continuous surveillance of the patient. Summary: We provide an in-depth overview on PCD, summarize recent findings related to PCD, and highlight the transformed diagnostic approach.
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8
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Schmitz-Hübsch T, Lux S, Bauer P, Brandt AU, Schlapakow E, Greschus S, Scheel M, Gärtner H, Kirlangic ME, Gras V, Timmann D, Synofzik M, Giorgetti A, Carloni P, Shah JN, Schöls L, Kopp U, Bußenius L, Oberwahrenbrock T, Zimmermann H, Pfueller C, Kadas EM, Rönnefarth M, Grosch AS, Endres M, Amunts K, Paul F, Doss S, Minnerop M. Spinocerebellar ataxia type 14: refining clinicogenetic diagnosis in a rare adult-onset disorder. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2021; 8:774-789. [PMID: 33739604 PMCID: PMC8045942 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Genetic variant classification is a challenge in rare adult‐onset disorders as in SCA‐PRKCG (prior spinocerebellar ataxia type 14) with mostly private conventional mutations and nonspecific phenotype. We here propose a refined approach for clinicogenetic diagnosis by including protein modeling and provide for confirmed SCA‐PRKCG a comprehensive phenotype description from a German multi‐center cohort, including standardized 3D MR imaging. Methods This cross‐sectional study prospectively obtained neurological, neuropsychological, and brain imaging data in 33 PRKCG variant carriers. Protein modeling was added as a classification criterion in variants of uncertain significance (VUS). Results Our sample included 25 cases confirmed as SCA‐PRKCG (14 variants, thereof seven novel variants) and eight carriers of variants assigned as VUS (four variants) or benign/likely benign (two variants). Phenotype in SCA‐PRKCG included slowly progressive ataxia (onset at 4–50 years), preceded in some by early‐onset nonprogressive symptoms. Ataxia was often combined with action myoclonus, dystonia, or mild cognitive‐affective disturbance. Inspection of brain MRI revealed nonprogressive cerebellar atrophy. As a novel finding, a previously not described T2 hyperintense dentate nucleus was seen in all SCA‐PRKCG cases but in none of the controls. Interpretation In this largest cohort to date, SCA‐PRKCG was characterized as a slowly progressive cerebellar syndrome with some clinical and imaging features suggestive of a developmental disorder. The observed non‐ataxia movement disorders and cognitive‐affective disturbance may well be attributed to cerebellar pathology. Protein modeling emerged as a valuable diagnostic tool for variant classification and the newly described T2 hyperintense dentate sign could serve as a supportive diagnostic marker of SCA‐PRKCG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Schmitz-Hübsch
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Silke Lux
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Peter Bauer
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,CENTOGENE AG, Rostock, Germany
| | - Alexander U Brandt
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Elena Schlapakow
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Center for Rare Diseases, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Susanne Greschus
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Scheel
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Neuroradiology, Charité -Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hanna Gärtner
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany
| | - Mehmet E Kirlangic
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany.,Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Computer Science, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Vincent Gras
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-4), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany
| | - Dagmar Timmann
- Department of Neurology, Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Matthis Synofzik
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Neurology, Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Alejandro Giorgetti
- Computational Biophysics, German Research School for Simulation Sciences, and Computational Biomedicine, Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-5) and Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-9), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany.,Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy
| | - Paolo Carloni
- Computational Biophysics, German Research School for Simulation Sciences, and Computational Biomedicine, Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-5) and Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-9), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany
| | - Jon N Shah
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-4), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, JARA, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ludger Schöls
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Neurology, Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ute Kopp
- Klinik und Hochschulambulanz für Neurologie, Charité -Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lisa Bußenius
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany.,Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Center for Experimental Medicine, University Clinic Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Timm Oberwahrenbrock
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hanna Zimmermann
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Caspar Pfueller
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ella-Maria Kadas
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Rönnefarth
- Klinik und Hochschulambulanz für Neurologie, Charité -Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne-Sophie Grosch
- Klinik und Hochschulambulanz für Neurologie, Charité -Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Endres
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Klinik und Hochschulambulanz für Neurologie, Charité -Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,Center for Stroke Research Berlin (CSB), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Berlin, Germany.,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Germany
| | - Katrin Amunts
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany.,C. and O. Vogt Institute for Brain Research, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Friedemann Paul
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,Klinik und Hochschulambulanz für Neurologie, Charité -Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sarah Doss
- Klinik und Hochschulambulanz für Neurologie, Charité -Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,Movement Disorders Section, Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Martina Minnerop
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Center for Movement Disorders and Neuromodulation, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany.,Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
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9
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Mitoma H, Manto M, Hadjivassiliou M. Immune-Mediated Cerebellar Ataxias: Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Based on Immunological and Physiological Mechanisms. J Mov Disord 2021; 14:10-28. [PMID: 33423437 PMCID: PMC7840241 DOI: 10.14802/jmd.20040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the first description of immune-mediated cerebellar ataxias (IMCAs) by Charcot in 1868, several milestones have been reached in our understanding of this group of neurological disorders. IMCAs have diverse etiologies, such as gluten ataxia, postinfectious cerebellitis, paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration, opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome, anti-GAD ataxia, and primary autoimmune cerebellar ataxia. The cerebellum, a vulnerable autoimmune target of the nervous system, has remarkable capacities (collectively known as the cerebellar reserve, closely linked to plasticity) to compensate and restore function following various pathological insults. Therefore, good prognosis is expected when immune-mediated therapeutic interventions are delivered during early stages when the cerebellar reserve can be preserved. However, some types of IMCAs show poor responses to immunotherapies, even if such therapies are introduced at an early stage. Thus, further research is needed to enhance our understanding of the autoimmune mechanisms underlying IMCAs, as such research could potentially lead to the development of more effective immunotherapies. We underscore the need to pursue the identification of robust biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Mitoma
- Department of Medical Education, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mario Manto
- Service de Neurologie, Médiathèque Jean Jacquy, CHU-Charleroi, Charleroi, Belgium.,Service des Neurosciences, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
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10
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Nigri A, Sarro L, Mongelli A, Pinardi C, Porcu L, Castaldo A, Ferraro S, Grisoli M, Bruzzone MG, Gellera C, Taroni F, Mariotti C, Nanetti L. Progression of Cerebellar Atrophy in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2 Gene Carriers: A Longitudinal MRI Study in Preclinical and Early Disease Stages. Front Neurol 2020; 11:616419. [PMID: 33384659 PMCID: PMC7770103 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.616419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxias type 2 (SCA2) is an autosomal dominant inherited disease caused by expanded trinucleotide repeats (≥32 CAG) within the coding region of ATXN2 gene. Age of disease onset primarily depends on the length of the expanded region. The majority of subjects carrying the mutation remain free of clinical signs for few decades (“pre-symptomatic” stage), but in proximity of disease onset subtle neurophysiological, cognitive, and structural brain imaging changes may occur. Aims of the present study are to determine the time-window in which early clinical and neurodegenerative MRI changes may be identified, and to evaluate the rate of the disease progression in both preclinical and early disease phases. We performed a 1-year longitudinal study in 42 subjects: 14 SCA2 patients (mean age 39 years, disease duration 7 years, SARA score 9 points), 13 presymptomatic SCA2 subjects (preSCA2, mean age 39 years, expected time to disease onset 16 years), and 15 gene-negative healthy controls (mean age 33 years). All participants underwent genetic test, neurological examination, cognitive tests, and brain MRI. Evaluations were repeated at 1-year interval. Baseline MRI evaluations in SCA2 patients showed significant atrophy in cerebellum, brainstem, basal ganglia and cortex compared to controls, while preSCA2 subjects had isolated volume loss in the pons, and cortical thinning in specific frontal and parietal areas, namely rostral-middle-frontal and precuneus. One-year longitudinal follow-up demonstrated, in SCA2 patients, volume reduction in cerebellum, pons, superior cerebellar peduncles, and midbrain, and only in the cerebellum in preSCA2 subjects. No progression in clinical or cognitive measures was observed in preSCA2 subjects. The rate of volume loss in the cerebellum and subcortical regions greatly differed between patients and preSCA2. In conclusion, our pilot study demonstrated that MRI measures are highly sensitive to identify longitudinal structural changes in SCA2 patients, and in preSCA2 up to a decade before expected disease onset. These findings may contribute in the understanding of early neurodegenerative processes and may be useful in future therapeutical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Nigri
- Department of Neuroradiology, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Lidia Sarro
- Department of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy.,Ospedale Martini, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessia Mongelli
- Department of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Pinardi
- Department of Neuroradiology, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Porcu
- Laboratory of Methodology for Clinical Research, Oncology Department, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Castaldo
- Department of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Ferraro
- Department of Neuroradiology, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Grisoli
- Department of Neuroradiology, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Bruzzone
- Department of Neuroradiology, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Cinzia Gellera
- Department of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Franco Taroni
- Department of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Caterina Mariotti
- Department of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Nanetti
- Department of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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11
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Positron Emission Tomography in the Inflamed Cerebellum: Addressing Novel Targets among G Protein-Coupled Receptors and Immune Receptors. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12100925. [PMID: 32998351 PMCID: PMC7601272 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12100925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory processes preceding clinical manifestation of brain diseases are moving increasingly into the focus of positron emission tomographic (PET) investigations. A key role in inflammation and as a target of PET imaging efforts is attributed to microglia. Cerebellar microglia, with a predominant ameboid and activated subtype, is of special interest also regarding improved and changing knowledge on functional involvement of the cerebellum in mental activities in addition to its regulatory role in motor function. The present contribution considers small molecule ligands as potential PET tools for the visualization of several receptors recognized to be overexpressed in microglia and which can potentially serve as indicators of inflammatory processes in the cerebellum. The sphingosine 1 phosphate receptor 1 (S1P1), neuropeptide Y receptor 2 (NPY2) and purinoceptor Y12 (P2Y12) cannabinoid receptors and the chemokine receptor CX3CR1 as G-protein-coupled receptors and the ionotropic purinoceptor P2X7 provide structures with rather classical binding behavior, while the immune receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) might depend for instance on further accessory proteins. Improvement in differentiation between microglial functional subtypes in comparison to the presently used 18 kDa translocator protein ligands as well as of the knowledge on the role of polymorphisms are special challenges in such developments.
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12
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Wan N, Chen Z, Wan L, Tang B, Jiang H. MR Imaging of SCA3/MJD. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:749. [PMID: 32848545 PMCID: PMC7417615 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3/Machado-Joseph disease (SCA3/MJD) is a progressive autosomal dominantly inherited cerebellar ataxia characterized by the aggregation of polyglutamine-expanded protein within neuronal nuclei in the brain, which can lead to brain damage that precedes the onset of clinical manifestations. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques such as morphometric MRI, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) have gained increasing attention as non-invasive and quantitative methods for the assessment of structural and functional alterations in clinical SCA3/MJD patients as well as preclinical carriers. Morphometric MRI has demonstrated typical patterns of atrophy or volume loss in the cerebellum and brainstem with extensive lesions in some supratentorial areas. DTI has detected widespread microstructural alterations in brain white matter, which indicate disrupted brain anatomical connectivity. Task-related fMRI has presented unusual brain activation patterns within the cerebellum and some extracerebellar tissue, reflecting the decreased functional connectivity of these brain regions in SCA3/MJD subjects. MRS has revealed abnormal neurochemical profiles, such as the levels or ratios of N-acetyl aspartate, choline, and creatine, in both clinical cases and preclinical cases before the alterations in brain anatomical structure. Moreover, a number of studies have reported correlations of MR imaging alterations with clinical and genetic features. The utility of these MR imaging techniques can help to identify preclinical SCA3/MJD carriers, monitor disease progression, evaluate response to therapeutic interventions, and illustrate the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the occurrence, development, and prognosis of SCA3/MJD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Wan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhao Chen
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Linlin Wan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Beisha Tang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Central South University, Changsha, China
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13
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Paternoster L, Soblet J, Aeby A, De Tiège X, Goldman S, Yue WW, Coppens S, Smits G, Vilain C, Deconinck N. Novel homozygous variant of carbonic anhydrase 8 gene expanding the phenotype of cerebellar ataxia, mental retardation, and disequilibrium syndrome subtype 3. Am J Med Genet A 2020; 182:2685-2693. [PMID: 32808436 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.61805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
We report the case of an 11-year-old Syrian girl born to consanguineous parents, who presents an ataxic gait from early childhood. On clinical examination, she presented a severe static - kinetic cerebellar syndrome, walking without support is possible for short distances only. Strikingly, three consecutive MRIs did not show any sign of cerebellar abnormalities, but a brain positron emission tomography (PET) using [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) demonstrated a clear decrease in glucose metabolism in the cerebellum as well as the anterior and medial temporal lobe bilaterally. A clinical exome analysis identified a novel homozygous c.251A > G (p.Asn84Ser) likely pathogenic variant in the carbonic anhydrase 8 (CA8) gene. CA8 mutations cause cerebellar ataxia, mental retardation, and disequilibrium syndrome subtype 3 (CAMRQ3), a rare genetically autosomal recessive disorder, only described in four families, so far with the frequent observation of quadrupedal gait. The proband differed with other reported CA8 mutations by the absence of clear cerebellar signs on brain MRI and the presence of focal seizures. This report expands the clinical spectrum associated with mutations in CA8 and illustrates the possible discrepancy between (mild) neuro-radiological images (MRI) and (severe) clinical phenotype in young individuals. In contrast, the observation of clear cerebellar abnormal metabolic findings suggests that the FDG-PET scan may be used as an early marker for hereditary ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lionel Paternoster
- Faculté de Médecine ULB, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Julie Soblet
- Department of Genetics, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Genetics, Hôpital Erasme, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alec Aeby
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Xavier De Tiège
- Department of Functional Neuroimaging, Service of Nuclear Medicine, CUB Hôpital Erasme, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Laboratoire de Cartographie fonctionnelle du Cerveau, ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Serge Goldman
- Department of Functional Neuroimaging, Service of Nuclear Medicine, CUB Hôpital Erasme, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Laboratoire de Cartographie fonctionnelle du Cerveau, ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wyatt W Yue
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sandra Coppens
- Department of Genetics, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Neuromuscular Reference Center, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Guillaume Smits
- Department of Genetics, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Genetics, Hôpital Erasme, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Catheline Vilain
- Department of Genetics, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Genetics, Hôpital Erasme, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Deconinck
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Neuromuscular Reference Center, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
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14
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Mascalchi M, Vella A. Neuroimaging Biomarkers in SCA2 Gene Carriers. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21031020. [PMID: 32033120 PMCID: PMC7037189 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A variety of Magnetic Resonance (MR) and nuclear medicine (NM) techniques have been used in symptomatic and presymptomatic SCA2 gene carriers to explore, in vivo, the physiopathological biomarkers of the neurological dysfunctions characterizing the associated progressive disease that presents with a cerebellar syndrome, or less frequently, with a levodopa-responsive parkinsonian syndrome. Morphometry performed on T1-weighted images and diffusion MR imaging enable structural and microstructural evaluation of the brain in presymptomatic and symptomatic SCA2 gene carriers, in whom they show the typical pattern of olivopontocerebellar atrophy observed at neuropathological examination. Proton MR spectroscopy reveals, in the pons and cerebellum of SCA2 gene carriers, a more pronounced degree of abnormal neurochemical profile compared to other spinocerebellar ataxias with decreased NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr, increased mi/Cr ratios, and decreased NAA and increased mI concentrations. These neurochemical abnormalities are detectable also in presymtomatic gene carriers. Resting state functional MRI (rsfMRI) demonstrates decreased functional connectivity within the cerebellum and of the cerebellum with fronto-parietal cortices and basal ganglia in symptomatic SCA2 subjects. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography (PET) shows a symmetric decrease of the glucose uptake in the cerebellar cortex, the dentate nucleus, the brainstem and the parahippocampal cortex. Single photon emission tomography and PET using several radiotracers have revealed almost symmetric nigrostriatal dopaminergic dysfunction irrespective of clinical signs of parkinsonism which are already present in presymtomatic gene carriers. Longitudinal small size studies have proven that morphometry and diffusion MR imaging can track neurodegeneration in SCA2, and hence serve as progression biomarkers. So far, such a capability has not been reported for proton MR spectroscopy, rsfMRI and NM techniques. A search for the best surrogate marker for future clinical trials represents the current challenge for the neuroimaging community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Mascalchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-329-808-1701
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15
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Neurochemical profiles in hereditary ataxias: A meta-analysis of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 108:854-865. [PMID: 31838195 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is applied to investigate the neurochemical profiles of degenerative hereditary ataxias. This meta-analysis provides a quantitative review and reappraisal of MRS findings in spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA) and Friedreich ataxia (FA) available to date. From each study, changes in N-acetyl aspartate (NAA), choline-containing compounds (Cho) and myo-Inositol (mI) ratios to total creatine (Cr) were calculated for groups of patients (1499 patients in total: SCA1 = 223, SCA2 = 298, SCA3 = 711, SCA6 = 165, and FA = 102) relative to their own control group, mostly in cerebellum and pons. SCA1, 2, 3, 6, and FA patients showed overall decreased NAA/Cr compared to controls. Decreased Cho/Cr was visible in SCA1, 2, and 3 and elevated mI/Cr in SCA2 patients in cerebellum. In SCA6 and FA Cho/Cr and mI/Cr did not differ with respect to controls but SCA6 patients indicated higher Cho/Cr compared to SCA1 patients in cerebellum. SCA2 subjects showed the lowest NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr in cerebellum and the highest mI/Cr compared to controls and other genotypes, and therefore the most promising results for a potential biomarker.
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16
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Differentiation Between Multiple System Atrophy and Other Spinocerebellar Degenerations Using Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging. Acad Radiol 2019; 26:e333-e339. [PMID: 30658931 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2018.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVE Differentiation between multiple system atrophy (MSA) and other spinocerebellar degenerations showing cerebellar ataxia is often difficult. Hence, we investigated whether magnetic resonance diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) could detect pathological changes that occur in these patients and be used for differential diagnosis. METHODS Thirty-six subjects (12 patients with MSA accompanied by predominant cerebellar ataxia [MSA-C], 10 patients with spinocerebellar ataxias [SCAs] or sporadic adult-onset ataxia of unknown etiology [SAOA], and 14 healthy controls) were examined using 1.5- or 3-T magnetic resonance scanners. From the DKI data, the mean kurtosis, fractional anisotropy, and mean diffusivity values of the pontine crossing tract (PCT), middle cerebellar peduncle, and cerebellum were automatically measured, and the ratios against the values of the corpus callosum were calculated. RESULTS We found significant decreases in mean kurtosis and fractional anisotropy ratios in the PCT and middle cerebellar peduncle, and a significant increase in the mean diffusivity ratio in the PCT in the MSA-C group, as compared with the SCA/SAOA and control groups (p < 0.027-0.001). Among these metrics, there were no significant differences in the diagnostic performance. By contrast, the ratios in the cerebellum showed no significant differences between the MSA-C and SCA/SAOA groups but were significantly altered when compared with the controls (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Quantitative DKI analyses can be used to differentiate between patients with MSA-C and those with SCA/SAOA.
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17
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Egorova PA, Bezprozvanny IB. Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutics for Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2. Neurotherapeutics 2019; 16:1050-1073. [PMID: 31435879 PMCID: PMC6985344 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-019-00777-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The effective therapeutic treatment and the disease-modifying therapy for spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) (a progressive hereditary disease caused by an expansion of polyglutamine in the ataxin-2 protein) is not available yet. At present, only symptomatic treatment and methods of palliative care are prescribed to the patients. Many attempts were made to study the physiological, molecular, and biochemical changes in SCA2 patients and in a variety of the model systems to find new therapeutic targets for SCA2 treatment. A better understanding of the uncovered molecular mechanisms of the disease allowed the scientific community to develop strategies of potential therapy and helped to create some promising therapeutic approaches for SCA2 treatment. Recent progress in this field will be discussed in this review article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polina A Egorova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, 195251, Russia
| | - Ilya B Bezprozvanny
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, 195251, Russia.
- Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, ND12.200, Dallas, Texas, 75390, USA.
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18
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Kadodwala VH, Hadjivassiliou M, Currie S, Skipper N, Hoggard N. Is 1H-MR spectroscopy useful as a diagnostic aid in MSA-C? CEREBELLUM & ATAXIAS 2019; 6:7. [PMID: 31321064 PMCID: PMC6612153 DOI: 10.1186/s40673-019-0099-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a sporadic adult-onset neurodegenerative disease with a cerebellar subtype where ataxic symptoms predominate (MSA-C) associated with autonomic dysfunction and a grave prognosis. The purpose of this analysis was to identify if cerebellar volumetry and MR spectroscopy obtained as part of routine clinical work up of patients with sporadic ataxia differentiates patients with multiple system atrophy- cerebellar type (MSA-C) from those with sporadic adult-onset ataxia of unknown etiology (SAOA) who’s condition follows a more benign course. Methods Retrospective comparison was undertaken of 20 clinically probable or possible MSA-C patients, 20 age and sex matched patients with SAOA and 20 healthy control subjects. Single voxel 1H-MR spectroscopy of the cerebellar hemisphere and vermis and volumetric analysis of the cerebellum and brainstem were undertaken on baseline scans, comparing all groups. Results There was significant reduction in NAA/Cr levels in patients with MSA-C when compared to those with ISA (p = 0.005) and healthy controls (p < 0.001) in both the hemisphere and vermis. Brainstem volume was significantly reduced in MSA-C patients compared to SAOA patients (p < 0.001) and healthy controls (p < 0.001). There was no difference in cerebellar volume between MSA-C patients and SAOA patients. Conclusion This paper demonstrates that at presentation, MSA-C patients have a significant reduction of NAA/Cr in the cerebellum and significant decrease in brainstem volume when compared to SAOA and healthy controls. This is the first study to sucessfully show clinical utility of MR spectroscopy of the cerebellum for differentiating MSA-C from patients with SAOA. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s40673-019-0099-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viren H Kadodwala
- Academic Unit of Radiology, C Floor, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2JF UK
| | - Marios Hadjivassiliou
- Academic Unit of Radiology, C Floor, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2JF UK
| | - Stuart Currie
- Academic Unit of Radiology, C Floor, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2JF UK
| | - Nicholas Skipper
- Academic Unit of Radiology, C Floor, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2JF UK
| | - Nigel Hoggard
- Academic Unit of Radiology, C Floor, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2JF UK
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Gosnell SN, Fowler JC, Salas R. Classifying suicidal behavior with resting-state functional connectivity and structural neuroimaging. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2019; 140:20-29. [PMID: 30929253 DOI: 10.1111/acps.13029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE About 80% of patients who commit suicide do not report suicidal ideation the last time they speak to their mental health provider, highlighting the need to identify biomarkers of suicidal behavior. Our goal is to identify suicidal behavior neural biomarkers to classify suicidal psychiatric inpatients. METHODS Eighty percent of our sample [suicidal (n = 63) and non-suicidal psychiatric inpatients (n = 65)] was used to determine significant differences in structural and resting-state functional connectivity measures throughout the brain. These measures were used in a random forest classification model on 80% of the sample for training the model. RESULTS The model built on 80% of the patients had sensitivity = 79.4% and specificity = 72.3%. This model was tested on an independent sample (20%; n = 32) with sensitivity = 81.3% and specificity = 75.0% for confirming the generalizability of the model. Altered resting-state functional connectivity features from frontal and middle temporal regions, as well as the amygdala, parahippocampus, putamen, and vermis were found to generalize best. CONCLUSION This work demonstrates neuroimaging (an unbiased biomarker) can be used to classify suicidal behavior in psychiatric inpatients without observing any clinical features.
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Affiliation(s)
- S N Gosnell
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Michael E DeBakey VA Medical, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - J C Fowler
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - R Salas
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Michael E DeBakey VA Medical, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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20
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Sarrigiannis PG, Zis P, Unwin ZC, Blackburn DJ, Hoggard N, Zhao Y, Billings SA, Khan AA, Yianni J, Hadjivassiliou M. Tremor after long term lithium treatment; is it cortical myoclonus? CEREBELLUM & ATAXIAS 2019; 6:5. [PMID: 31143451 PMCID: PMC6532190 DOI: 10.1186/s40673-019-0100-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Tremor is a common side effect of treatment with lithium. Its characteristics can vary and when less rhythmical, distinction from myoclonus can be difficult. Methods We identified 8 patients on long-term treatment with lithium that developed upper limb tremor. All patients were assessed clinically and electrophysiologically, with jerk-locked averaging (JLA) and cross-correlation (CC) analysis, and five of them underwent brain MRI examination including spectroscopy (MRS) of the cerebellum. Results Seven patients (6 female) had action and postural myoclonus and one a regular postural and kinetic tremor that persisted at rest. Mean age at presentation was 58 years (range 42-77) after lengthy exposure to lithium (range 7-40 years). During routine monitoring all patients had lithium levels within the recommended therapeutic range (0.4-1 mmol/l). There was clinical and/or radiological evidence (on cerebellar MRS) of cerebellar dysfunction in 6 patients. JLA and/or CC suggested a cortical generator of the myoclonus in seven patients. All seven were on antidepressants and three additionally on neuroleptics, four of them had gluten sensitivity and two reported alcohol abuse. Conclusions A synergistic effect of different factors appears to be contributing to the development of cortical myoclonus after chronic exposure to lithium. We hypothesise that the cerebellum is involved in the generation of cortical myoclonus in these cases and factors aetiologically linked to cerebellar pathology like gluten sensitivity and alcohol abuse may play a role in the development of myoclonus. Despite the very limited evidence in the literature, lithium induced cortical myoclonus may not be so rare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ptolemaios Georgios Sarrigiannis
- 1Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Floor N., Sheffield, UK
| | - Panagiotis Zis
- 1Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Floor N., Sheffield, UK
| | - Zoe Charlotte Unwin
- 1Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Floor N., Sheffield, UK
| | - Daniel J Blackburn
- 2Department of Neurology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Nigel Hoggard
- 3Department of Neuroradiology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Yifan Zhao
- 4Through-life Engineering Services Centre, Cranfield University, Bedford, MK43 0AL UK
| | - Stephen A Billings
- 5Department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering, University of Sheffield, S1 3JD, Sheffield, UK
| | - Aijaz A Khan
- 2Department of Neurology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - John Yianni
- 6Department of Neurosurgery, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Marios Hadjivassiliou
- 2Department of Neurology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
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21
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Mascalchi M, Vella A. Neuroimaging Applications in Chronic Ataxias. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2018; 143:109-162. [PMID: 30473193 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2018.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) are the main instruments for neuroimaging investigation of patients with chronic ataxia. MRI has a predominant diagnostic role in the single patient, based on the visual detection of three patterns of atrophy, namely, spinal atrophy, cortical cerebellar atrophy and olivopontocerebellar atrophy, which correlate with the aetiologies of inherited or sporadic ataxia. In fact spinal atrophy is observed in Friedreich ataxia, cortical cerebellar atrophy in Ataxia Telangectasia, gluten ataxia and Sporadic Adult Onset Ataxia and olivopontocerebellar atrophy in Multiple System Atrophy cerebellar type. The 39 types of dominantly inherited spinocerebellar ataxias show either cortical cerebellar atrophy or olivopontocerebellar atrophy. T2 or T2* weighted MR images can contribute to the diagnosis by revealing abnormally increased or decreased signal with a characteristic distribution. These include symmetric T2 hyperintensity of the posterior and lateral columns of the cervical spinal cord in Friedreich ataxia, diffuse and symmetric hyperintensity of the cerebellar cortex in Infantile Neuro-Axonal Dystrophy, symmetric hyperintensity of the peridentate white matter in Cerebrotendineous Xanthomatosis, and symmetric hyperintensity of the middle cerebellar peduncles and peridentate white matter, cerebral white matter and corpus callosum in Fragile X Tremor Ataxia Syndrome. Abnormally decreased T2 or T2* signal can be observed with a multifocal distribution in Ataxia Telangectasia and with a symmetric distribution in the basal ganglia in Multiple System Atrophy. T2 signal hypointensity lining diffusely the outer surfaces of the brainstem, cerebellum and cerebrum enables diagnosis of superficial siderosis of the central nervous system. The diagnostic role of nuclear medicine techniques is smaller. SPECT and PET show decreased uptake of radiotracers investigating the nigrostriatal system in Multiple System Atrophy and in patients with Fragile X Tremor Ataxia Syndrome. Semiquantitative or quantitative MRI, SPECT and PET data describing structural, microstructural and functional changes of the cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord have been widely applied to investigate physiopathological changes in patients with chronic ataxias. Moreover they can track diseases progression with a greater sensitivity than clinical scales. So far, a few small-size and single center studies employed neuroimaging techniques as surrogate markers of treatment effects in chronic ataxias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Mascalchi
- Meyer Children Hospital, Florence, Italy; Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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22
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Mascalchi M, Marzi C, Giannelli M, Ciulli S, Bianchi A, Ginestroni A, Tessa C, Nicolai E, Aiello M, Salvatore E, Soricelli A, Diciotti S. Histogram analysis of DTI-derived indices reveals pontocerebellar degeneration and its progression in SCA2. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0200258. [PMID: 30001379 PMCID: PMC6042729 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0200258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the potential of histogram metrics of diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI)-derived indices in revealing neurodegeneration and its progression in spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2). MATERIALS AND METHODS Nine SCA2 patients and 16 age-matched healthy controls, were examined twice (SCA2 patients 3.6±0.7 years and controls 3.3±1.0 years apart) on the same 1.5T scanner by acquiring T1-weighted and diffusion-weighted (b-value = 1000 s/mm2) images. Cerebrum and brainstem-cerebellum regions were segmented using FreeSurfer suite. Histogram analysis of DTI-derived indices, including mean diffusivity (MD), fractional anisotropy (FA), axial (AD) / radial (RD) diffusivity and mode of anisotropy (MO), was performed. RESULTS At baseline, significant differences between SCA2 patients and controls were confined to brainstem-cerebellum. Median values of MD/AD/RD and FA/MO were significantly (p<0.001) higher and lower, respectively, in SCA2 patients (1.11/1.30/1.03×10(-3) mm2/s and 0.14/0.19) than in controls (0.80/1.00/0.70×10(-3) mm2/s and 0.20/0.41). Also, peak location values of MD/AD/RD and FA were significantly (p<0.001) higher and lower, respectively, in SCA2 patients (0.91/1.11/0.81×10(-3) mm2/s and 0.12) than in controls (0.71/0.91/0.63×10(-3) mm2/s and 0.18). Peak height values of FA and MD/AD/RD/MO were significantly (p<0.001) higher and lower, respectively, in SCA2 patients (0.20 and 0.07/0.06/0.07×10(-3) mm2/s/year /0.07) than in controls (0.15 and 0.14/0.11/0.12/×10(-3) mm2/s/year /0.09). The rate of change of MD median values was significantly (p<0.001) higher (i.e., increased) in SCA2 patients (0.010×10(-3) mm2/s/year) than in controls (-0.003×10(-3) mm2/s/year) in the brainstem-cerebellum, whereas no significant difference was found for other indices and in the cerebrum. CONCLUSION Histogram analysis of DTI-derived indices is a relatively straightforward approach which reveals microstructural changes associated with pontocerebellar degeneration in SCA2 and the median value of MD is capable to track its progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Mascalchi
- “Mario Serio” Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Chiara Marzi
- Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering “Guglielmo Marconi”, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Marco Giannelli
- Unit of Medical Physics, Pisa University Hospital “Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana”, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Ciulli
- “Mario Serio” Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Bianchi
- “Mario Serio” Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Ginestroni
- Neuroradiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Carlo Tessa
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Versilia Hospital, AUSL 12 Viareggio, Lido di Camaiore (Lu), Italy
| | | | | | - Elena Salvatore
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Diciotti
- Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering “Guglielmo Marconi”, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
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Marzi C, Ciulli S, Giannelli M, Ginestroni A, Tessa C, Mascalchi M, Diciotti S. Structural Complexity of the Cerebellum and Cerebral Cortex is Reduced in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2. J Neuroimaging 2018; 28:688-693. [PMID: 29975004 DOI: 10.1111/jon.12534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Fractal dimension (FD) is an index of structural complexity of cortical gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM). Application of FD to pontocerebellar degeneration has revealed cerebellar changes. However, so far, possible concurrent cerebral changes and progression of changes in brain complexity have not been investigated. METHODS We computed FD of cerebellar and cerebral cortex and WM derived from longitudinal brain MRI of patients with spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2), which is an inherited cause of pontocerebellar degeneration. Nine SCA2 patients and 16 age-matched healthy controls were examined twice (3.6 ± .7 and 3.3 ± 1.0 years apart, respectively) on the same 1.5T MR scanner with T1-weighted imaging. Cortical GM and WM of the cerebrum and cerebellum were segmented using FreeSurfer and FD of these segmentations were computed. RESULTS At baseline, FD values of cerebellar GM and WM were significantly (P < .001) lower in SCA2 patients (2.48 ± .04 for GM and 1.74 ± .09 for WM) than in controls (2.56 ± .02 for GM and 2.22 ± .19 for WM). Also, FD values of cerebral GM were significantly (P < .05) lower in SCA2 patients (2.39 ± .03) than in controls (2.43 ± .02). No significant differences were observed for FD of the cerebral WM. The rate of change of FD values was not significantly different between SCA2 patients and controls. CONCLUSIONS The structural complexity of the cerebellum and cerebral cortex is reduced in SCA2 patients. Fractal analysis seems not to be able to demonstrate progression of changes associated with degeneration in SCA2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Marzi
- Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering "Guglielmo Marconi", University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Ciulli
- "Mario Serio" Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Giannelli
- Unit of Medical Physics, Pisa University Hospital "Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana", Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Ginestroni
- Neuroradiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Carlo Tessa
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Versilia Hospital, Lido di Camaiore (Lu), Italy
| | - Mario Mascalchi
- "Mario Serio" Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Stefano Diciotti
- Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering "Guglielmo Marconi", University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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24
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Higashi M, Ozaki K, Hattori T, Ishii T, Soga K, Sato N, Tomita M, Mizusawa H, Ishikawa K, Yokota T. A diagnostic decision tree for adult cerebellar ataxia based on pontine magnetic resonance imaging. J Neurol Sci 2018; 387:187-195. [PMID: 29571861 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2018.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Cerebellar ataxias (CAs) are heterogeneous conditions often require differential diagnosis. This study aimed to establish a diagnostic decision tree for differentiating CAs based on pontine MRI findings. Two-hundred and two consecutive ataxia patients were clinically classified into 4 groups: (1) spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) with brainstem involvement (SCA-BSI), (2) Pure cerebellar SCA, (3) cerebellar dominant multiple system atrophy (MSA-c), and (4) Other CA. Signal intensity in pons was graded into 3 types: hot cross bun sign (HCBS), pontine midline linear T2-hyperintensity (PMH), or normal. The distance ratio of pontine base to tegmentum, named "BT-ratio", was measured. The presence of HCBS indicated either MSA-c with a specificity of 97.7%, or SCA2. When PMH was observed, a BT-ratio above 3.54 strongly indicated SCA-BSI, namely Machado-Joseph disease, SCA1, or dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy, whereas a BT-ratio below 3.54 indicated MSA-c or SCA2. When the signal intensity was normal, a BT-ratio above 3.52 indicated SCA-BSI, whereas a BT-ratio below 3.52 suggested Pure cerebellar SCA or Other CA with pure cerebellar type. The decision tree was confirmed useful in a different 30 CA patients. We propose that differential diagnosis of CAs can be supported by combining pontine MRI signal intensity changes and BT-ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miwa Higashi
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Kokoro Ozaki
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Takaaki Hattori
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Takashi Ishii
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Soga
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan; Department of Neurology, Yokosuka Kyosai Hospital, 1-16 Yonegahama-dori, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 238-8558, Japan
| | - Nozomu Sato
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Makoto Tomita
- Clinical Research Center, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan
| | - Hidehiro Mizusawa
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan; National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), 4-1-1 Ogawa-Higashi, Kodaira, Tokyo 187-8551, Japan
| | - Kinya Ishikawa
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan; The Center for Personalized Medicine for Healthy Aging, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan.
| | - Takanori Yokota
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
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Groth CL, Berman BD. Spinocerebellar Ataxia 27: A Review and Characterization of an Evolving Phenotype. Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (N Y) 2018; 8:534. [PMID: 29416937 PMCID: PMC5801325 DOI: 10.7916/d80s0zjq] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) is an uncommon form of progressive cerebellar ataxia with multiple genetic causes and marked variability in phenotypic expression even across patients with identical genetic abnormalities. SCA27 is a recently identified SCA caused by mutations in the Fibroblast Growth Factor 14 gene, with a phenotypic expression that is only beginning to be fully appreciated. We report here a case of a 70-year-old male who presented with slowly worsening tremor and gait instability that began in his early adulthood along with additional features of parkinsonism on examination. Work-up revealed a novel pathogenic mutation in the Fibroblast Growth Factor 14 gene, and symptoms improved with amantadine and levodopa. We also provide a review of the literature in order to better characterize the phenotypic expression of this uncommon condition. Methods Case report and review of the literature. Results Review of the literature revealed a total of 32 previously reported clinical cases of SCA27. Including our case, we found that early-onset tremor (12.1 ± 10.5 years) was present in 95.8%, while gait ataxia tended to present later in life (23.7 ± 16.7 years) and was accompanied by limb ataxia, dysarthria, and nystagmus. Other features of SCA27 that may distinguish it from other SCAs include the potential for episodic ataxia, accompanying psychiatric symptoms, and cognitive impairment. Discussion Testing for SCA27 should be considered in individuals with ataxia who report tremor as an initial or early symptom, as well as those with additional findings of episodic ataxia, neuropsychiatric symptoms, or parkinsonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L. Groth
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Brian D. Berman
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Neurology Section, Denver VA Medical Center, Denver, CO, USA
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27
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Abstract
Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) with different radiotracers enable regional evaluation of blood flow and glucose metabolism, of receptors and transporters of several molecules, and of abnormal deposition of peptides and proteins in the brain. The cerebellum has been used as a reference region for different radiotracers in several disease conditions. Whole-brain voxel-wise analysis is not affected by a priori knowledge bias and should be preferred. SPECT and PET have contributed to establishing the cerebellum role in motion, cognition, and emotion control in physiologic and pathophysiologic conditions. The basic abnormal imaging findings include decreased or increased uptake of flow or metabolism tracers in the cerebellum alone or as part of a network. Decreased uptake is generally observed in primary structural damage of the cerebellum, but can also represent a distant effect of cerebral damage (crossed diaschisis). Increased uptake can be observed in Freidreich ataxia, inflammatory or immune-mediated diseases of the cerebellum, and in status epilepticus. The possibility is also recognized that primary structural damage of the cerebellum might determine distance effects on other brain structures (reversed diaschisis). So far, SPECT and PET have been predominantly used in clinical studies to investigate cerebellar changes in neurologic and psychiatric diseases and in connection with pharmacologic, transcranial magnetic stimulation, deep-brain stimulation, or surgical treatments.
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Zis P, Rao DG, Hoggard N, Sarrigiannis PG, Hadjivassiliou M. Anti-MAG associated cerebellar ataxia and response to rituximab. J Neurol 2017; 265:115-118. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-017-8675-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Velázquez-Pérez LC, Rodríguez-Labrada R, Fernandez-Ruiz J. Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2: Clinicogenetic Aspects, Mechanistic Insights, and Management Approaches. Front Neurol 2017; 8:472. [PMID: 28955296 PMCID: PMC5601978 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2017.00472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) is an autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia that occurs as a consequence of abnormal CAG expansions in the ATXN2 gene. Progressive clinical features result from the neurodegeneration of cerebellum and extra-cerebellar structures including the pons, the basal ganglia, and the cerebral cortex. Clinical, electrophysiological, and imaging approaches have been used to characterize the natural history of the disease, allowing its classification into four distinct stages, with special emphasis on the prodromal stage, which is characterized by a plethora of motor and non-motor features. Neuropathological investigations of brain tissue from SCA2 patients reveal a widespread involvement of multiple brain systems, mainly cerebellar and brainstem systems. Recent findings linking ataxin-2 intermediate expansions to other neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis have provided insights into the ataxin-2-related toxicity mechanism in neurodegenerative diseases and have raised new ethical challenges to molecular predictive diagnosis of SCA2. No effective neuroprotective therapies are currently available for SCA2 patients, but some therapeutic options such as neurorehabilitation and some emerging neuroprotective drugs have shown palliative benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis C Velázquez-Pérez
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias, Holguín, Cuba.,Medical University of Holguín "Mariana Grajales", Holguín, Cuba
| | - Roberto Rodríguez-Labrada
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias, Holguín, Cuba.,Physical Culture School, University of Holguin "Oscar Lucero", Holguín, Cuba
| | - Juan Fernandez-Ruiz
- Department of Physiology, Medicine School, UNAM, Cuernavaca, Mexico.,Psychology School, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Mexico
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Velázquez-Pérez L, Rodríguez-Labrada R, Laffita-Mesa JM. Prodromal spinocerebellar ataxia type 2: Prospects for early interventions and ethical challenges. Mov Disord 2017; 32:708-718. [DOI: 10.1002/mds.26969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - José Miguel Laffita-Mesa
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias; Holguín Cuba
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience; Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset; Stockholm Sweden
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Mascalchi M, Mari F, Berti B, Bartolini E, Lenge M, Bianchi A, Antonucci L, Santorelli FM, Garavaglia B, Guerrini R. Fast Progression of Cerebellar Atrophy in PLA2G6-Associated Infantile Neuronal Axonal Dystrophy. THE CEREBELLUM 2017; 16:742-745. [DOI: 10.1007/s12311-017-0843-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Ishibashi K, Miura Y, Toyohara J, Ishii K, Ishiwata K. Comparison of imaging using 11C-ITMM and 18F-FDG for the detection of cerebellar ataxia. J Neurol Sci 2017; 375:97-102. [PMID: 28320199 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2017.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Objective Newly developed methods for imaging type 1 metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR1) have the potential use for estimating cerebellar function. We aimed to compare mGluR1 imaging using N-[4-[6-(isopropylamino)pyrimidin-4-yl]-1,3-thiazol-2-yl]-4-11C-methoxy-N-methylbenzamide (11C-ITMM) with the existing marker, fluorine-18-labeled fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) imaging, in the cerebellum. METHODS Fourteen subjects consisting of 12 patients with cerebellar ataxia and two healthy subjects underwent 11C-ITMM and 18F-FDG positron emission tomography. The degree of ataxia was scored with the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA). Volumes-of-interest were placed on the anterior and posterior lobes and vermis. The binding potential (BPND) was calculated to estimate mGluR1 availability using the white matter as a reference region. 18F-FDG uptake was normalized using the white matter (FUwm). RESULTS There were significant positive correlations between the BPND and FUwm values in the anterior lobe (r=0.83, P<0.001), posterior lobe (r=0.69, P=0.009), and vermis (r=0.58, P=0.042). Regarding the relationship of SARA scores with the BPND and FUwm values, a significant negative correlation was found only in the anterior lobe between the SARA scores and BPND values (r=-0.64, P=0.029). CONCLUSION This study showed that mGluR1 imaging was comparable to 18F-FDG imaging in the cerebellum. However, mGluR1 imaging was more strongly associated with the SARA scores than 18F-FDG imaging was, suggesting that mGluR1 imaging can be a more specific technique than 18F-FDG imaging for evaluating cerebellar ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Ishibashi
- Research Team for Neuroimaging, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Neurology, Tokyo Metropolitan Cancer and Infectious Diseases Center Komago2me Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Yoshiharu Miura
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Metropolitan Cancer and Infectious Diseases Center Komago2me Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Jun Toyohara
- Research Team for Neuroimaging, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Kenji Ishii
- Research Team for Neuroimaging, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Kiichi Ishiwata
- Research Team for Neuroimaging, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan; Institute of Cyclotron and Drug Discovery Research, Southern Tohoku Research Institute for Neuroscience, Koriyama, Japan; Department of Biofunctional Imaging, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan.
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Sun YM, Lu C, Wu ZY. Spinocerebellar ataxia: relationship between phenotype and genotype - a review. Clin Genet 2016; 90:305-14. [PMID: 27220866 DOI: 10.1111/cge.12808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2016] [Revised: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) comprises a large group of heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorders inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. It is characterized by progressive cerebellar ataxia with oculomotor dysfunction, dysarthria, pyramidal signs, extrapyramidal signs, pigmentary retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy, cognitive impairment and other symptoms. It is classified according to the clinical manifestations or genetic nosology. To date, 40 SCAs have been characterized, and include SCA1-40. The pathogenic genes of 28 SCAs were identified. In recent years, with the widespread clinical use of next-generation sequencing, the genes underlying SCAs, and the mutants as well as the affected phenotypes were identified. These advances elucidated the phenotype-genotype relationship in SCAs. We reviewed the recent clinical advances, genetic features and phenotype-genotype correlations involving each SCA and its differentiation. The heterogeneity of the disease and the genetic diagnosis might be attributed to the regional distribution and clinical characteristics. Therefore, recognition of the phenotype-genotype relationship facilitates genetic testing, prognosis and monitoring of symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y-M Sun
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - C Lu
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Z-Y Wu
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China. .,Joint Institute for Genetics and Genome Medicine between Zhejiang University and University of Toronto, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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Paap BK, Roeske S, Durr A, Schöls L, Ashizawa T, Boesch S, Bunn LM, Delatycki MB, Giunti P, Lehéricy S, Mariotti C, Melegh J, Pandolfo M, Tallaksen CM, Timmann D, Tsuji S, Schulz JB, van de Warrenburg BP, Klockgether T. Standardized Assessment of Hereditary Ataxia Patients in Clinical Studies. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2016; 3:230-240. [PMID: 30363623 PMCID: PMC6178745 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.12315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2015] [Revised: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary ataxias are a heterogeneous group of degenerative diseases of the cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord. They may present with isolated ataxia or with additional symptoms going beyond cerebellar deficits. There are an increasing number of clinical studies with the goal to define the natural history of these disorders, develop biomarkers, and investigate therapeutic interventions. Especially, early and preclinical disease stages are currently of particular interest. METHODS AND RESULTS Evidence-based, we review standards for sampling and storage of biomaterials, clinical and neuropsychological assessment, as well as neurophysiology and neuroimaging and recommendations for standardized assessment of ataxia patients in multicenter studies. CONCLUSIONS DNA, RNA, serum, and, if possible, cerebrospinal fluid samples should be processed following established standards. Clinical assessment in ataxia studies must include use of a validated clinical ataxia scale. There are several validated clinical ataxia scales available. There are no instruments that were specifically designed for assessing neuropsychological and psychiatric symptoms in ataxia disorders. We provide a list of tests that may prove valuable. Quantitative performance tests have the potential to supplement clinical scales. They provide additional objective and quantitative information. Posturography and quantitative movement analysis-despite valid approaches-require standardization before implemented in multicenter studies. Standardization of neurophysiological tools, as required for multicenter interventional trials, is still lacking. Future multicenter neuroimaging studies in ataxias should implement quality assurance measures as defined by the ADNI or other consortia. MRI protocols should allow morphometric analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandra Roeske
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)BonnGermany
| | - Alexandra Durr
- APHP Department of GeneticsGroupe Hospitalier Pitié‐SalpêtrièreParisFrance
- Institut du Cerveau et de la MoelleINSERM U1127CNRS UMR7225Sorbonne Universités–UPMC Université Paris VI UMR_S1127ParisFrance
| | - Ludger Schöls
- Department of Neurology and Hertie‐Institute for Clinical Brain ResearchUniversity of TübingenTübingenGermany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)TübingenGermany
| | - Tetsuo Ashizawa
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Research ProgramMethodist Hospital Research InstituteHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Sylvia Boesch
- Department of NeurologyMedical University InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
| | - Lisa M. Bunn
- School of Health ProfessionsPeninsula Allied Health CenterUniversity of PlymouthUnited Kingdom
| | - Martin B. Delatycki
- Murdoch Children's Research InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Clinical GeneticsAustin HealthHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
| | - Paola Giunti
- Ataxia Centre Department of MolecularneuroscienceUCL Institute of NeurologyLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Stéphane Lehéricy
- Institut du Cerveau et de la MoelleINSERM U1127CNRS UMR7225Sorbonne Universités–UPMC Université Paris VI UMR_S1127ParisFrance
- Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle (ICM) epiniereCentre de NeuroImagerie de Recherche (CENIR)ParisFrance
- Service de NeuroradiologieGroupe Hospitalier Pitie‐SalpetriereParisFrance
| | - Caterina Mariotti
- Unit of Genetics of Neurodegenerative and Metabolic DisordersFondazione IRCCS‐Istituto Neurologico Carlo BestaMilanItaly
| | - Jörg Melegh
- Department of Medical Genetics and Szentagothai Research CenterUniversity of PécsPécsHungary
| | | | - Chantal M.E. Tallaksen
- Department of NeurologyOslo University HospitalOsloNorway
- Faculty of MedicineOslo UniversityOsloNorway
| | - Dagmar Timmann
- Department of NeurologyEssen University HospitalUniversity of Duisburg‐EssenEssenGermany
| | - Shoji Tsuji
- Department of NeurologyGraduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Jörg Bela Schulz
- Department of Neurology and JARA BrainUniversity HospitalRWTH AachenAachenGermany
| | - Bart P. van de Warrenburg
- Department of NeurologyRadboud University Medical CenterDonders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and BehaviorNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Thomas Klockgether
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)BonnGermany
- Department of NeurologyUniversity Hospital of BonnBonnGermany
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic ataxia, greater than two months in duration, is encountered relatively commonly in clinical pediatric neurology practise and presents with diagnostic challenges. It is caused by multiple and diverse disorders. Our aims were to describe the neuroimaging features and the value of repeat neuroimaging in pediatric chronic ataxia to ascertain their contribution to the diagnosis and management. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective charts and neuroimaging reports review was undertaken in 177 children with chronic ataxia. Neuroimaging in 130 of 177 patients was also reviewed. RESULTS Nineteen patients had head computed tomography only, 103 brain magnetic resonance imaging only, and 55 had both. Abnormalities in the cerebellum or other brain regions were associated with ataxia. Neuroimaging was helpful in 73 patients with 30 disorders: It was diagnostic in 9 disorders, narrowed down the diagnostic possibilities in 14 disorders, and revealed important but non-diagnostic abnormalities, e.g. cerebellar atrophy in 7 disorders. Having a normal magnetic resonance imaging scan was mostly seen in genetic diseases or in the early course of ataxia telangiectasia. Repeat neuroimaging, performed in 108 patients, was generally helpful in monitoring disease evolution and in making a diagnosis. Neuroimaging was not directly helpful in 36 patients with 10 disorders or by definition the 55 patients with unknown disease etiology. CONCLUSIONS Normal or abnormal neuroimaging findings and repeat neuroimaging are very valuable in the diagnosis and management of disorders associated with pediatric chronic ataxia.
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Mascalchi M, Toschi N, Giannelli M, Ginestroni A, Della Nave R, Tessa C, Piacentini S, Dotti MT, Aiello M, Nicolai E, Soricelli A, Salvi F, Diciotti S. Regional Cerebral Disease Progression in Friedreich's Ataxia: A Longitudinal Diffusion Tensor Imaging Study. J Neuroimaging 2015; 26:197-200. [PMID: 26175281 DOI: 10.1111/jon.12270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Revised: 05/17/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Imaging biomarkers of disease progression are desirable in inherited ataxias. MRI has demonstrated brain damage in Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) in form of regional atrophy of the medulla, peridentate cerebellar white matter (WM) and superior cerebellar peduncles (visible in T1-weighted images) and of change of microstructural characteristics of WM tracts of the brainstem, cerebellar peduncles, cerebellum, and supratentorial structures (visible through diffusion-weighted imaging). We explored the potential of brain MR morphometry and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to track the progression of neurodegeneration in FRDA. METHODS Eight patients (5F, 3M; age 13.4-41.2 years) and 8 healthy controls (2F, 6M; age 26.2-48.3 years) underwent 2 MRI examinations (mean 3.9 and 4.1 years apart, respectively) on the same 1.5T scanner. The protocol included 3D T1-weighted images and axial diffusion-weighted images (b-value 1,000 s/mm(2)) for calculating maps of fractional anisotropy, mean, axial and radial diffusivity, and mode of anisotropy. Tensor-based morphometry was used to investigate regional volume changes and tract-based spatial statistics was used to investigate microstructural changes in WM tracts. RESULTS Longitudinal analyses showed no differences in regional volume changes but a significant difference in axial diffusivity changes in cerebral and corpus callosum WM of patients as compared to controls (mean longitudinal rate of change for axial diffusivity: -.02 × 10(-3) mm(2)/s/year in patients vs. .01 × 10(-3) mm(2)/s/year in controls). No correlation with number of triplets, disease duration, and worsening of the clinical deficit was observed. CONCLUSION DTI can track brain microstructural changes in FRDA and can be considered a potential biomarker of disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Mascalchi
- Quantitative and Functional Neuroradiology Research Unit at Meyer Children and Careggi Hospitals of Florence, Florence, Italy.,"Mario Serio" Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Nicola Toschi
- Medical Physics Section, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata,", Rome, Italy.,Department of Radiology, Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Boston, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Marco Giannelli
- Unit of Medical Physics, Pisa University Hospital "Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana,", Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | - Carlo Tessa
- Unit of Radiology, Versilia Hospital, Azienda USL 12 Viareggio, Lido di Camaiore (Lu), Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Andrea Soricelli
- IRCSS SDN Foundation, Naples, Italy.,University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Salvi
- "Il Bene" Centre for Immunological and Rare Diseases, Bellaria Hospital, IRCSS Neurologia Città di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Diciotti
- Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering "Guglielmo Marconi,", University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
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