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Choudhury C, Sahib A. Cerebellar syndrome as the presenting feature of Hashimoto encephalopathy. BMJ Case Rep 2024; 17:e256365. [PMID: 38806398 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2023-256365] [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] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Hashimoto encephalopathy presents with a myriad of neuropsychiatric features in the background of elevated antithyroid antibodies and it may or may not be associated with Hashimoto thyroiditis. It is a diagnosis of exclusion. Here, we present the case of a hypothyroid woman in her 30s, with a 5-year history of chronic progressive gait ataxia along with hand and head tremor, inattention and electroencephalogram (EEG) suggestive of interictal epileptiform discharges without any clinical seizures. The patient had very high titres of anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies >2000 IU/mL and was on very high-dose levothyroxine replacement therapy. She responded to intravenous pulse corticosteroids. Improvement was noted both clinically and on subsequent EEGs. Pure cerebellar syndrome without frank encephalopathy can also be a rare presentation of Hashimoto encephalopathy. This highlights the importance of antithyroid antibodies testing even in cases of pure cerebellar syndrome to rule out Hashimoto encephalopathy associated ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Akhil Sahib
- Neurology, Medeor Hospitals Limited, New Delhi, India
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2
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Idrissi S, Velucci V, Esposito M, Trinchillo A, Habestwallner F, Belvisi D, Fabbrini G, Ferrazzano G, Rizzo V, Terranova C, Girlanda P, Pellicciari R, Avanzino L, Di Biasio F, Marchese R, Bono F, Idone G, Laterza V, Lettieri C, Rinaldo S, Eleopra R, Castagna A, Altavista MC, Moschella V, Erro R, Barone P, Barbero P, Ceravolo R, Mazzucchi S, Mascia MM, Ercoli T, Muroni A, Zibetti M, Lopiano L, Scaglione CLM, Bentivoglio AR, Petracca M, Magistrelli L, Cotelli MS, Cossu G, Squintani GM, De Santis T, Schirinzi T, Misceo S, Pisani A, Berardelli A, Defazio G. Does thyroid diseases contribute to the natural history of idiopathic adult-onset dystonia? Data from the Italian Dystonia Registry. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:369-375. [PMID: 38376582 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-024-02753-7] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
A few earlier observations and recent controlled studies pointed to the possible contribution of thyroid diseases in idiopathic adult-onset dystonia (IAOD). The aim of this study was to investigate the association between thyroid status and clinical characteristics of IAOD, focusing on dystonia localization, spread, and associated features such as tremors and sensory tricks. Patients were identified from those included in the Italian Dystonia Registry, a multicentre dataset of patients with adult-onset dystonia. The study population included 1518 IAOD patients. Patients with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism were compared with those without any thyroid disease. In the 1518 IAOD patients, 167 patients (11%; 95% CI 9.5-12.6%) were diagnosed with hypothyroidism and 42 (2.8%; 95% CI 1.99-3.74) with hyperthyroidism. The three groups were comparable in age at dystonia onset, but there were more women than men in the groups with thyroid disease. Analysing the anatomical distribution of dystonia, more patients with blepharospasm were present in the hyperthyroidism group, but the difference did not reach statistical significance after the Bonferroni correction. The remaining dystonia-affected body sites were similarly distributed in the three groups, as did dystonia-associated features and spread. Our findings provided novel information indicating that the high rate of thyroid diseases is not specific for any specific dystonia subpopulation and does not appear to influence the natural history of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Idrissi
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), "Aldo Moro" University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
| | - Vittorio Velucci
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), "Aldo Moro" University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Assunta Trinchillo
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, Federico II" University, Naples, Italy
- Neurosciences Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Daniele Belvisi
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed Institute, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Giovanni Fabbrini
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed Institute, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Gina Ferrazzano
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Rizzo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Carmen Terranova
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Paolo Girlanda
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Roberta Pellicciari
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), "Aldo Moro" University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Laura Avanzino
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | - Francesco Bono
- Centre for Botulinum Toxin Therapy, Neurologic Unit, A.O.U. Mater Domini, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giovanni Idone
- Centre for Botulinum Toxin Therapy, Neurologic Unit, A.O.U. Mater Domini, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Laterza
- Centre for Botulinum Toxin Therapy, Neurologic Unit, A.O.U. Mater Domini, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Christian Lettieri
- Clinical Neurology Unit, "S. Maria della Misericordia" University-Hospital, Udine, Italy
| | - Sara Rinaldo
- Parkinson and Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Eleopra
- Parkinson and Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Castagna
- IRCCS, Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation Onlus, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Roberto Erro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Paolo Barone
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Ceravolo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sonia Mazzucchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Tommaso Ercoli
- Neurology Unit, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonella Muroni
- Neurology Unit, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zibetti
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Leonardo Lopiano
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | | | - Martina Petracca
- Institute of Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Magistrelli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Movement Disorders Centre, Neurology Unit, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Cossu
- Neurology Service and Stroke Unit, Department of Neuroscience, AO Brotzu, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanna Maddalena Squintani
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Tiziana De Santis
- Department of Neurology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Tommaso Schirinzi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Pisani
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alfredo Berardelli
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed Institute, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Giovanni Defazio
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), "Aldo Moro" University of Bari, Bari, Italy
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Reda H. Neurologic Complications of Endocrine Disorders. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2023; 29:887-902. [PMID: 37341334 DOI: 10.1212/con.0000000000001262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This article provides an overview of the neurologic complications of the most prevalent endocrine disorders in adults with an emphasis on relevant neurologic symptoms, signs, and laboratory and neuroimaging findings. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS Although the mechanisms of many of the neurologic complications discussed here remain unclear, our understanding of the impacts of diabetes and hypothyroidism on the nervous system and muscle, including complications of rapid correction of chronic hyperglycemia, has advanced in recent years. Recent large studies have not demonstrated a convincing association between subclinical or overt hypothyroidism and cognitive decline. ESSENTIAL POINTS Neurologists must become familiar with the neurologic complications of endocrine disorders not only because they are common and treatable (and often reversible) but also because they may be iatrogenic, as is the case with adrenal insufficiency in the setting of long-term corticosteroid therapy.
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Schneider SA, Tschaidse L, Reisch N. Thyroid Disorders and Movement Disorders-A Systematic Review. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2023; 10:360-368. [PMID: 36949803 PMCID: PMC10026317 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.13656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There is overlap between movement disorders and neuroendocrine abnormalities. Objectives and methods To provide a systematic review on the association of thyroid dysfunction and movement disorders. Thyroid physiological function and classical thyroid disorders highlighting typical and atypical manifestations including movement disorders, as well as diagnostic procedures, and treatments are discussed. Results Hypothyroidism may be associated with hypokinetic and hyperkinetic disorders. There is debate whether their concomitance reflects a causal link, is coincidence, or the result of one unmasking the other. Hypothyroidism-associated parkinsonism may resemble idiopathic Parkinson's disease. Hypothyroidism-associated hyperkinetic disorders mainly occur in the context of steroid-responsive encephalopathy with autoimmune thyroiditis, that is, Hashimoto disease, mostly manifesting with tremor, myoclonus, and ataxia present in 28-80%, 42-65% and 33-65% in larger series. Congenital hypothyroidism manifesting with movement disorders, mostly chorea and dystonia, due to Mendelian genetic disease are rare.Hyperthyroidism on the other hand mostly manifests with hyperkinetic movement disorders, typically tremor (present in three quarters of patients). Chorea (present in about 2% of hyperthyroid patients), dystonia, myoclonus, ataxia and paroxysmal movement disorders, as well as parkinsonism have also been reported, with correlation between movement intensity and thyroid hormone levels.On a group level, studies on the role of thyroid dysfunction as a risk factor for the development of PD remain non-conclusive. Conclusions In view of the treatability of movement disorders associated with thyroid disease, accurate diagnosis is important. The pathophysiology remains poorly understood. More detailed case documentation and systematic studies, along with experimental studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lea Tschaidse
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IVKlinikum der Universität MünchenMunichGermany
| | - Nicole Reisch
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IVKlinikum der Universität MünchenMunichGermany
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Gozubatik-Celik RG, Gul ZB, Bilgin EB, Yildiz MU, Yenidunya O, Misirli H, Celik HT, Kurtulus F, Yaman A, Domac F, Karaci R, Cokar O, Culha Oktar A, Emre Toprak U, Yavuz N, Dalgıc E, Ozen Barut B, Dogan Ak P, Ozgenc CI, Bulbul NG, Atmaca MM, Gokyigit FM, Gürkan ZM, Pazarci N, Surmeli R, Kale N, Yildirim Z, Yayla V, Sozer N, Cabalar M, Delen F, Ucler S, Unal E, Sungur MA, Sen A, Atakli D, Soysal A. Autoimmune encephalitis and paraneoplastic syndromes in Turkey: a multi-centre study. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:4393-4403. [DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-05955-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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6
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The Neuropathology of Autoimmune Ataxias. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12020257. [PMID: 35204019 PMCID: PMC8869941 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12020257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune-mediated ataxia has been associated with paraneoplastic disease, gluten enteropathy, Hashimoto thyroiditis as well as autoimmune disorders without a known associated disease. There have been relatively few reports describing the neuropathology of these conditions. This review is an attempt to consolidate those reports and determine the ways in which autoimmune ataxias can be neuropathologically differentiated from hereditary or other sporadic ataxias. In most instances, particularly in paraneoplastic forms, the presence of inflammatory infiltrates is a strong indicator of autoimmune disease, but it was not a consistent finding in all reported cases. Therefore, clinical and laboratory findings are important for assessing an autoimmune mechanism. Such factors as rapid rate of clinical progression, presence of known autoantibodies or the presence of a malignant neoplasm or other autoimmune disease processes need to be considered, particularly in cases where inflammatory changes are minimal or absent and the pathology is largely confined to the cerebellum and its connections, where the disease can mimic hereditary or other sporadic ataxias.
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Zhang J, Chen Y, Li H, Li H. Effects of vitamin D on thyroid autoimmunity markers in Hashimoto's thyroiditis: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Int Med Res 2021; 49:3000605211060675. [PMID: 34871506 PMCID: PMC8711703 DOI: 10.1177/03000605211060675] [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] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To perform a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation on thyroid autoimmunity markers in Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT). METHODS This meta-analysis included randomized controlled clinical trials identified by a systematic search of electronic databases (PubMed®, MEDLINE®, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure) from inception to August 2020. All studies included patients with HT that received vitamin D supplementation irrespective of the doses administered or the duration of treatment. The primary and secondary outcome measures were thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) and/or thyroglobulin antibody (TGAb) titres. RESULTS Eight studies (n = 652) were included. There was significant heterogeneity between the studies. Using a random-effect model, vitamin D supplementation reduced TPOAb titre (standardized mean difference [SMD]: -1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1-1.92, -0.29) and TGAb titre (SMD: -1.12; 95% CI: -1.96, -0.28). A subgroup analysis demonstrated that vitamin D supplementation for >3 months resulted in a decrease in TPOAb titre (SMD: -1.66, 95% CI: -2.91, -0.41) but treatment ≤3 months was ineffective. Treatment with vitamin D3 decreased TPOAb titre (SMD: -1.48; 95% CI: -2.53, -0.42) whereas vitamin D did not. CONCLUSION These data suggest that vitamin D reduces autoantibody titre in patients with HT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Long Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuting Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhejiang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Long Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Long Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Pierri V, Dagostino S, Vasta R, Ercoli T, Piga G, Melas V, Bruder F, Conti C, Cappai PF, Manieli C, Melis M, Floris G, Melis M, Muroni A, Maleci A, Defazio G. Incidence and spatial distribution of adult-onset primary malignant and other central nervous system tumors in Southern Sardinia, Italy. Neurol Sci 2021; 43:419-425. [PMID: 34791565 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05747-5] [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: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study for the first time the incidence of adult-onset CNS tumors in Southern Sardinia, Italy. METHODS Clinical records of patients > 18 years old who were diagnosed with primary CNS tumors during 2016-2019 in the study area were reviewed. Meningiomas, cranial/paraspinal nerve tumors, lymphomas, and pituitary tumors were excluded. Cases were classified according to the 2016 WHO classification of CNS tumors and to the morphology codes from the International Classification of Diseases-Oncology, third edition. Age-adjusted incidence rates were calculated by the direct method to the 2011-2020 European standard population. Kulldorff's spatial scan statistic was used to identify geographic clusters of patients who shared increased/decreased tendency to develop CNS tumors. RESULTS CNS tumors were diagnosed in 234 incident patients, but histological diagnosis was available in 222/234 patients (95%) aged 64.3 ± 13.5 years at diagnosis. Crude incidence rate was 7.1 per 100,000 persons-year (95% CI, 6.2-8.1), 6.2 per 100,000 persons-year (95% CI, 5.4-7.0) when age-adjusted. CNS tumors were more frequent in men and after age 40. Glioblastoma accounted for 76% of the total (adjusted rate, 4.7 per 100,000 persons-year; 95% CI, 4.0-5.4). Spatial analysis revealed geographic variations of glioblastoma incidence within the study area. CONCLUSION Although the distribution of tumor diagnoses in Sardinia reflects expected age and gender-related patterns in western populations, our findings would indicate a slightly higher incidence of glial tumors, glioblastoma in particular, in Sardinia than in other European countries. The identification of spatial clusters of high/low risk will serve as a resource for etiological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Pierri
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sabino Dagostino
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Rosario Vasta
- "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Tommaso Ercoli
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Piga
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Valerio Melas
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Conti
- Department of Neurosurgery, AO Brotzu, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Manieli
- Service of Pathological Anatomy, Azienda Ospedaliera "G. Brotzu", Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maurizio Melis
- Neurology Service and Stroke Unit, Department of Neuroscience, AO Brotzu, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gianluca Floris
- Institute of Neurology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marta Melis
- Institute of Neurology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonella Muroni
- Institute of Neurology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alberto Maleci
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Defazio
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Institute of Neurology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Ercoli T, Masala C, Pinna I, Orofino G, Solla P, Rocchi L, Defazio G. Qualitative smell/taste disorders as sequelae of acute COVID-19. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:4921-4926. [PMID: 34557966 PMCID: PMC8459812 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05611-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Background Qualitative smell/taste disorders (such as phantosmia, parosmia, phantogeusia, and parageusia) have not yet been fully characterized in patients who had COVID-19, whereas quantitative disturbances (i.e., reduction/loss of smell/taste) have been widely investigated. Objective To simultaneously assess the presence of both quantitative and qualitative smell/taste dysfunctions in patients who suffered from COVID-19. Methods We enrolled 17 consecutive patients who suffered from COVID-19 over the last 6 months and 21 healthy controls, matched for sex and age. After a negative nasopharyngeal swab, the Sniffin’ Sticks Test and the Taste Strips were used to assess olfactory and taste function, respectively. At the same time, the presence of phantosmia, parosmia, phantogeusia, and parageusia was investigated with a standardized questionnaire. Results Qualitative disturbances of smell and/or taste were found in 6/17 (35.3%) patients. Phantosmia was reported in 2/17 (11.8%) patients and parosmia in 4/17 (23.5%). There were no significant differences in smell test scores between patients who reported phantosmia and/or parosmia and patients who did not. Phantogeusia was described in 3/17 (17.6%) patients, and parageusia was identified in 4/17 (23.5%) patients. All tested patients were normogeusic. Conclusion Around one-third of patients who recover from COVID-19 may have persistent qualitative dysfunction in smell/taste domains. Detection of phantogeusia in long-term COVID-19 patients represents a further novel finding. Further investigation is needed to better characterize the pathophysiology of phantosmia, parosmia, phantogeusia, and parageusia in patients who had COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Ercoli
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Institute of Neurology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Carla Masala
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Ilenia Pinna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Gianni Orofino
- Institute of Neurology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Paolo Solla
- Department of Neurology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Rocchi
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Institute of Neurology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Institute of Neurology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Defazio
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Institute of Neurology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Institute of Neurology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Parr T, Limanowski J, Rawji V, Friston K. The computational neurology of movement under active inference. Brain 2021; 144:1799-1818. [PMID: 33704439 PMCID: PMC8320263 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
We propose a computational neurology of movement based on the convergence of theoretical neurobiology and clinical neurology. A significant development in the former is the idea that we can frame brain function as a process of (active) inference, in which the nervous system makes predictions about its sensory data. These predictions depend upon an implicit predictive (generative) model used by the brain. This means neural dynamics can be framed as generating actions to ensure sensations are consistent with these predictions-and adjusting predictions when they are not. We illustrate the significance of this formulation for clinical neurology by simulating a clinical examination of the motor system using an upper limb coordination task. Specifically, we show how tendon reflexes emerge naturally under the right kind of generative model. Through simulated perturbations, pertaining to prior probabilities of this model's variables, we illustrate the emergence of hyperreflexia and pendular reflexes, reminiscent of neurological lesions in the corticospinal tract and cerebellum. We then turn to the computational lesions causing hypokinesia and deficits of coordination. This in silico lesion-deficit analysis provides an opportunity to revisit classic neurological dichotomies (e.g. pyramidal versus extrapyramidal systems) from the perspective of modern approaches to theoretical neurobiology-and our understanding of the neurocomputational architecture of movement control based on first principles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Parr
- Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Jakub Limanowski
- Faculty of Psychology and Center for Tactile Internet with Human-in-the-Loop, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Vishal Rawji
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Karl Friston
- Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK
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11
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Mizuma A, Enokida K, Nagata E, Takizawa S. Cerebellitis in a human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 carrier: a case report. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:14/6/e241366. [PMID: 34099448 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2020-241366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Human T-lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) is a retrovirus associated with adult T-cell lymphoma (ATL) and HTLV-I-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). In addition to HAM/TSP and ATL, HTLV-I-associated encephalopathy and cerebellar involvement have been reported. We report a case of an 87-year-old Japanese woman presenting with progressive dysarthria and gait disturbance. Neurological examination showed word-finding difficulty, scanning speech, saccadic eye movements, ocular dysmetria, gaze-evoked nystagmus and bilateral dysmetria. There was no motor weakness or spasticity. HTLV-I antibody was detected in both her serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid neopterin (57 pg/mL) and IgG index (3.27) were significantly elevated. MRI showed cerebellar swelling. She was finally diagnosed with HTLV-I associated cerebellitis. Two courses of high-dose intravenous methylpredonine therapy attenuated cerebellar ataxia and cerebellar swelling. It suggests that cerebellitis can result from HTLV-I infection, regardless of the existence of ATL or HAM/TSP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Mizuma
- Department of Neurology, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kumiko Enokida
- Department of Neurology, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Eiichiro Nagata
- Department of Neurology, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Shunya Takizawa
- Department of Neurology, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa, Japan
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Cerebellar ataxia and myeloradiculopathy associated with AP3B2 antibody: a case report and literature review. J Neurol 2021; 268:4163-4169. [PMID: 33988764 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10496-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AP3B2 is one of the subunits of vesicle coat protein AP3 and is specifically expressed in central nervous system neurons. AP3B2 antibody has been reported in patients with autoimmune cerebellar ataxia and various extracerebellar symptoms. However, there have been few reports on its clinical features and treatment response. METHODS We report a 47-year-old man with AP3B2 antibody who presented with insidious-onset paresthesia and gait disturbance. His serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) showed reactivity with the cytoplasm of Purkinje cells and granular layer synapses comparable to the reported specific pattern of anti-AP3B2 IgG, and this was confirmed by a cell-based assay. His symptoms improved after the administration of intravenous immunoglobulin, and oral prednisone and mycophenolate mofetil. Extensive examination and long-term follow-up showed no evidence of malignancy. A literature review was included to emphasize the neurological syndrome associated with this rare autoantibody. RESULTS Eleven cases with AP3B2 antibody, including our patient, were identified. The diversity of symptoms, including cerebellar and sensory ataxia, paresthesia, and weakness, was in line with the extensive binding of AP3B2 antibody to the spinal cord gray matter, dorsal root ganglia, cerebellar cortex, and nucleus. In the CSF, half of patients had elevated white blood cell counts, increased protein concentrations, or CSF-specific oligoclonal bands. All previous cases had subacute onsets and no improvement was noted after immunotherapy. CONCLUSION Our case indicated that disorders associated with AP3B2 antibody can also start insidiously. Immunotherapy is warranted given the possibility of clinical improvement.
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Chambers T, Anney R, Taylor PN, Teumer A, Peeters RP, Medici M, Caseras X, Rees DA. Effects of Thyroid Status on Regional Brain Volumes: A Diagnostic and Genetic Imaging Study in UK Biobank. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:688-696. [PMID: 33274371 PMCID: PMC7947746 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thyroid hormone is essential for optimal human neurodevelopment and may modify the risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, the brain structures involved are unknown and it is unclear if the adult brain is also susceptible to changes in thyroid status. METHODS We used International Classification of Disease-10 codes, polygenic thyroid scores at different thresholds of association with thyroid traits (PT-values), and image-derived phenotypes in UK Biobank (n = 18 825) to investigate the effects of a recorded diagnosis of thyroid disease and genetic risk for thyroid status on cerebellar and subcortical gray matter volume. Regional genetic pleiotropy between thyroid status and ADHD was explored using the GWAS-pairwise method. RESULTS A recorded diagnosis of hypothyroidism (n = 419) was associated with significant reductions in total cerebellar and pallidum gray matter volumes (β [95% CI] = -0.14[-0.23, -0.06], P = 0.0005 and β [95%CI] = -0.12 [-0.20, -0.04], P = 0.0042, respectively), mediated in part by increases in body mass index. While we found no evidence for total cerebellar volume alterations with increased polygenic scores for any thyroid trait, opposing influences of increased polygenic scores for hypo- and hyperthyroidism were found in the pallidum (PT < 1e-3: β [95% CI] = -0.02 [-0.03, -0.01], P = 0.0003 and PT < 1e-7: β [95% CI] = 0.02 [0.01, 0.03], P = 0.0003, respectively). Neither hypo- nor hyperthyroidism showed evidence of regional genetic pleiotropy with ADHD. CONCLUSIONS Thyroid status affects gray matter volume in adults, particularly at the level of the cerebellum and pallidum, with potential implications for the regulation of motor, cognitive, and affective function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Chambers
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC), Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Richard Anney
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Peter N Taylor
- Systems Immunity Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Alexander Teumer
- Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Germany
| | - Robin P Peeters
- Department of Internal Medicine and Academic Center for Thyroid Diseases, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marco Medici
- Department of Internal Medicine and Academic Center for Thyroid Diseases, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Xavier Caseras
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - D Aled Rees
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Correspondence: D. Aled Rees, FRCP, PhD, Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Hadyn Ellis Building, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, United Kingdom.
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Hashimoto's thyroiditis: An update on pathogenic mechanisms, diagnostic protocols, therapeutic strategies, and potential malignant transformation. Autoimmun Rev 2020; 19:102649. [PMID: 32805423 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2020.102649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Hashimoto's thyroiditis, characterized by thyroid-specific autoantibodies, is one of the commonest autoimmune disorders. Although the exact etiology has not been fully elucidated, Hashimoto's thyroiditis is related to an interaction among genetic elements, environmental factors and epigenetic influences. Cellular and humoral immunity play a key role in the development of the disease; thus, a T and B cells inflammatory infiltration is frequently found. Histopathologic features of the disease include lymphoplasmacytic infiltration, lymphoid follicle formation with germinal centers, and parenchymal atrophy. Moreover, the occurrence of large follicular cells and oxyphilic or Askanazy cells is frequently associated to Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Clinically, Hashimoto's thyroiditis is characterized mainly by systemic manifestations due to the damage of the thyroid gland, developing a primary hypothyroidism. Diagnosis of Hashimoto's thyroiditis is clinical and based on clinical characteristics, positivity to serum antibodies against thyroid antigens (thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin), and lymphocytic infiltration on cytological examination. The mainstream of treatment is based on the management of the hypothyroidism with a substitution therapy. A relationship between Hashimoto's thyroiditis and a possible malignant transformation has been proposed in several studies and involves immunological/hormonal pathogenic links although specific correlation is still debated and needs to be further investigated with prospective studies.
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