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Santoro JD, Filipink RA, Baumer NT, Bulova PD, Handen BL. Down syndrome regression disorder: updates and therapeutic advances. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2023; 36:96-103. [PMID: 36705008 DOI: 10.1097/yco.0000000000000845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Down syndrome regression disorder (DSRD) is a symptom cluster consisting of neuropsychiatric regression without cause. Although knowledge of this condition has accelerated over the last decade, prior studies have been limited by heterogenous nomenclature, diagnostic approaches and therapeutic interventions. This review highlights recent advances in the diagnosis and clinical approach to DSRD and reviews the most up-to-date literature on therapeutic interventions for this condition. RECENT FINDINGS Several multicentre studies have reported exciting findings on the presence of neurodiagnostic study abnormalities and responses to a variety of therapeutics, including psychotropics (including benzodiazepines), electroconvulsive therapy and immunotherapy. Differential response rates have been observed in the presence and absence of a variety of clinical and diagnostic factors. SUMMARY Individuals with DSRD are responsive to a variety of psychiatric pharmacotherapy and immunotherapy underscoring this phenotype may have multiple causes. Multidisciplinary care is helpful in the evaluation and management of individuals with this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D Santoro
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles
- Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California
| | - Robyn A Filipink
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
- Division of Child Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Nicole T Baumer
- Department of Neurology
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Benjamin L Handen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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2
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Santoro SL, Baumer NT, Cornacchia M, Franklin C, Hart SJ, Haugen K, Hojlo MA, Horick N, Kishnani PS, Krell K, McCormick A, Milliken AL, Oreskovic NM, Pawlowski KG, Sargado S, Torres A, Valentini D, Vellody K, Skotko BG. Unexplained regression in Down syndrome: Management of 51 patients in an international patient database. Am J Med Genet A 2022; 188:3049-3062. [PMID: 35924793 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Research to guide clinicians in the management of the devastating regression which can affect adolescents and young adults with Down syndrome is limited. A multi-site, international, longitudinal cohort of individuals with a clinical diagnosis of Unexplained Regression in Down syndrome (URDS) was collated through seven Down syndrome clinics. Tiered medical evaluation, a 28-item core symptom list, and interim management are described naturalistically. Improvement-defined by the percentage of baseline function on a Parent-reported Functional Score, overall improvement in symptoms on a Clinician-administered Functional Assessment, or report of management type being associated with improvement-was analyzed. Improvement rates using ECT, IVIG, and others were compared. Across seven clinics, 51 patients with URDS had regression at age 17.6 years, on average, and showed an average 14.1 out of 28 symptoms. Longitudinal improvement in function was achieved in many patients and the medical management, types of treatment, and their impact on function are described. Management with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) was significantly associated with higher rate of improvement in symptoms at the next visit (p = 0.001). Our longitudinal data demonstrates that URDS is treatable, with various forms of clinical management and has a variable course. The data suggests that IVIG may be an effective treatment in some individuals. Our description of the management approaches used in this cohort lays the groundwork for future research, such as development of standardized objective outcome measure and creation of a clinical practice guideline for URDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Santoro
- Down Syndrome Program, Division of Medical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nicole T Baumer
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Boston Children's Hospital Down Syndrome Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Catherine Franklin
- Mater Research Institute-University of Queensland, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sarah J Hart
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kelsey Haugen
- Down Syndrome Program, Division of Medical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Margaret A Hojlo
- Boston Children's Hospital Down Syndrome Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nora Horick
- Biostatistics Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Priya S Kishnani
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kavita Krell
- Down Syndrome Program, Division of Medical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrew McCormick
- Down Syndrome Center of Western Pennsylvania, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Anna L Milliken
- Boston Children's Hospital Down Syndrome Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nicolas M Oreskovic
- Down Syndrome Program, Division of Medical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katherine G Pawlowski
- Boston Children's Hospital Down Syndrome Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sabrina Sargado
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Boston Children's Hospital Down Syndrome Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Amy Torres
- Down Syndrome Program, Division of Medical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Diletta Valentini
- Pediatric and Infectious Disease Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Kishore Vellody
- Down Syndrome Center of Western Pennsylvania, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Brian G Skotko
- Down Syndrome Program, Division of Medical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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3
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Fujino H, Moritsugu A. Dohsa‐hou for unexplained regression in Down syndrome in a 19‐year‐old man: A case report. Clin Case Rep 2022; 10:e05827. [PMID: 35600012 PMCID: PMC9107914 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.5827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Haruo Fujino
- Department of Child Development United Graduate School of Child Development Osaka University Suita Japan
- Graduate School of Human Sciences Osaka University Suita Japan
- Department of Special Needs Education Oita University Oita Japan
| | - Aoi Moritsugu
- Department of Special Needs Education Oita University Oita Japan
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4
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Wagemann O, Loosli SV, Vöglein J, Prix C, Wlasich E, Nübling G, Danek A, Levin J. [Regression in Young Adults with Down-Syndrome: A Case Series]. FORTSCHRITTE DER NEUROLOGIE-PSYCHIATRIE 2022; 90:465-470. [PMID: 35405744 DOI: 10.1055/a-1743-2915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regression in young adults with Down syndrome can present itself with an acute loss of acquired skills and change in behavior. The aim of our case series was to describe the heterogeneous clinical presentation of this syndrome as well as accompanying diagnostic and therapeutic challenges and consequences. METHODS All three patients were assessed with the CAMDEX-DS (Cambridge Examination for Mental Disorders of Older People with Down Syndrome and Others with Intellectual Disabilities) and the criteria published by the DSMIG-USA (Down-Syndrome Medical Interest Group USA). RESULTS After ruling out somatic or other psychiatric causes, the application of the DSMIG-USA criteria resulted in diagnosing at least a probable unexplained regression in all three patients. DISCUSSION The thorough diagnostic investigation of unexplained acute regression in young adults with Down syndrome allows for quick initiation of therapeutic and supportive measures. Using the DMSIG-USA criteria facilitates the assessment of the underlying diffuse and heterogenous pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Wagemann
- Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen Standort München, München, Germany
| | - Sandra V Loosli
- Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Jonathan Vöglein
- Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen Standort München, München, Germany
| | - Catharina Prix
- Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen Standort München, München, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Wlasich
- Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Georg Nübling
- Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen Standort München, München, Germany
| | - Adrian Danek
- Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Johannes Levin
- Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen Standort München, München, Germany
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5
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Walpert M, Zaman S, Holland A. A Systematic Review of Unexplained Early Regression in Adolescents and Adults with Down Syndrome. Brain Sci 2021; 11:1197. [PMID: 34573218 PMCID: PMC8467499 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11091197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A proportion of young people with Down syndrome (DS) experience unexplained regression that severely impacts on their daily lives. While this condition has been recognised by clinicians, there is a limited understanding of causation and an inconsistent approach to diagnosis and treatment. Varied symptomology and little knowledge of the cause of this regression have impacted on clinician's ability to prevent or manage this condition. The purpose of this review was to examine the current evidence surrounding unexplained regression in adolescents and young adults, and to establish patterns that may be of use to clinicians, as well as raising awareness of this condition. Four areas were specifically reviewed, (1) terminology used to refer to this condition, (2) the symptoms reported, (3) potential trigger events and, (4) treatments and prognosis. A variety of terminology is used for this condition, which has constrained past attempts to identify patterns. An extensive number of symptoms were reported, however sleep impairment, loss of language and distinct changes in personality and behaviour, such as disinterest and withdrawal, were among the most frequently seen. Life events that were tentatively associated with the onset of a regressive period included a significant change in environmental circumstances or a transition, such as moving home or leaving school. Prognosis for this condition is relatively positive with the majority of individuals making at least a partial recovery. However, few patients were found to make a full recovery to their previous level of functioning and serious adverse effects could persist in those who have made a partial recovery. This is an under-researched condition with significant impacts on people with DS and their families. There are no established treatments for this condition and there is relatively little recognition in the research community. Further studies that focus on the prevention and treatment of this condition with controlled treatment trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anthony Holland
- Cambridge Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 8AH, UK; (M.W.); (S.Z.)
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Dávila G, Moyano MP, Edelkraut L, Moreno-Campos L, Berthier ML, Torres-Prioris MJ, López-Barroso D. Pharmacotherapy of Traumatic Childhood Aphasia: Beneficial Effects of Donepezil Alone and Combined With Intensive Naming Therapy. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1144. [PMID: 32848757 PMCID: PMC7411310 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
At present, language therapy is the only available treatment for childhood aphasia (CA). Studying new interventions to augment and hasten the benefits provided by language therapy in children is strongly needed. CA frequently emerges as a consequence of traumatic brain injury and, as in the case of adults, it may be associated with dysfunctional activity of neurotransmitter systems. The use of cognitive-enhancing drugs, alone or combined with aphasia therapy, promotes improvement of language deficits in aphasic adults. In this study we report the case of a 9-year-old right-handed girl, subject P, who had chronic anomic aphasia associated with traumatic lesions in the left temporal-parietal cortex. We performed a single-subject, open-label study encompassing administration of the cholinergic agent donepezil (DP) alone during 12 weeks, followed by a combination of DP and intensive naming therapy (INT) for 2 weeks and thereafter by a continued treatment of DP alone during 12 weeks, a 4-week washout period, and another 2 weeks of INT. Four comprehensive language and neuropsychological evaluations were performed at different timepoints along the study, and multiple naming evaluations were performed after each INT in order to assess performance in treated and untreated words. Structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed at baseline. MRI revealed two focal lesions in the left hemisphere, one large involving the posterior inferior and middle temporal gyri and another comprising the angular gyrus. Overall, baseline evaluation disclosed marked impairment in naming with mild-to-moderate compromise of spontaneous speech, repetition, and auditory comprehension. Executive and attention functions were also affected, but memory, visuoconstructive, and visuoperceptive functions were preserved. Treatment with DP alone significantly improved spontaneous speech, auditory comprehension, repetition, and picture naming, in addition to processing speed, selective, and sustained attention. Combined DP-INT further improved naming. After washout of both interventions, most of these beneficial changes remained. Importantly, DP produced no side effects and subject P attained the necessary level of language competence to return to regular schooling. In conclusion, the use of DP alone and in combination with INT improved language function and related cognitive posttraumatic deficits in a child with acquired aphasia. Further studies in larger samples are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guadalupe Dávila
- Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga - IBIMA, Málaga, Spain.,Department of Psychobiology and Methodology of Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Speech Therapy, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain.,Language Neuroscience Research Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Speech Therapy, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - María Pilar Moyano
- Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Lisa Edelkraut
- Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga - IBIMA, Málaga, Spain.,Department of Psychobiology and Methodology of Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Speech Therapy, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain.,Language Neuroscience Research Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Speech Therapy, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Lorena Moreno-Campos
- Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Marcelo L Berthier
- Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga - IBIMA, Málaga, Spain.,Language Neuroscience Research Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Speech Therapy, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - María José Torres-Prioris
- Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga - IBIMA, Málaga, Spain.,Department of Psychobiology and Methodology of Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Speech Therapy, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain.,Language Neuroscience Research Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Speech Therapy, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Diana López-Barroso
- Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga - IBIMA, Málaga, Spain.,Department of Psychobiology and Methodology of Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Speech Therapy, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain.,Language Neuroscience Research Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Speech Therapy, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
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7
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Unexplained regression in Down syndrome: 35 cases from an international Down syndrome database. Genet Med 2019; 22:767-776. [PMID: 31767984 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-019-0706-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE An entity of regression in Down syndrome (DS) exists that affects adolescents and young adults and differs from autism spectrum disorder and Alzheimer disease. METHODS Since 2017, an international consortium of DS clinics assembled a database of patients with unexplained regression and age- and sex-matched controls. Standardized data on clinical symptoms and tiered medical evaluations were collected. Elements of the proposed definition of unexplained regression in DS were analyzed by paired comparisons between regression cases and matched controls. RESULTS We identified 35 patients with DS and unexplained regression, with a mean age at regression of 17.5 years. Diagnostic features differed substantially between regression cases and matched controls (p < 0.001 for all but externalizing behaviors). Patients with regression had four times as many mental health concerns (p < 0.001), six times as many stressors (p < 0.001), and seven times as many depressive symptoms (p < 0.001). Tiered medical evaluation most often identified abnormalities in vitamin D 25-OH levels, polysomnograms, thyroid peroxidase antibodies, and celiac screens. Analysis of the subset of patients with nondiagnostic medical evaluations reinforced the proposed definition. CONCLUSIONS Our case-control evidence supports a proposed definition of unexplained regression in Down syndrome. Establishing this clinical definition supports future research and investigation of an underlying mechanism.
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8
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Down syndrome: Neurobiological alterations and therapeutic targets. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 98:234-255. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Revised: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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9
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Abstract
Introduction: Comorbid psychiatric disorders are common in Down syndrome (DS). Evidence for pharmacotherapy of psychiatric co-morbidity in DS is limited. Areas covered: This article reviews the literature on the pharmacotherapy of psychiatric conditions co-occurring with DS, including major depressive disorder (MDD), bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), psychosis, and catatonia. A section on the phenomenon of regression is included. Expert opinion: For MDD, we typically begin with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). For bipolar disorder, we often use carbamazepine. For psychotic symptoms, we begin with risperidone or aripiprazole. We use buspirone to treat anxiety. For obsessional slowness/OCD, we begin with an SSRI. For stereotypical repetitive behavior, we tend to use buspirone. For ADHD, we begin with guanfacine. For irritability of comorbid ASD, we use risperidone or aripiprazole. For dementia in DS, we refer to a neurologist for medical work-up and medication management. We treat catatonia-like 'regression' with lorazepam. If ineffective, we use memantine or clozapine. Electroconvulsive therapy is considered if pharmacotherapy is ineffective. We treat 'regression' with symptoms of MDD ± psychosis, with an antidepressant and an antipsychotic if needed. Randomized controlled trials of medications for comorbid psychiatric disorders in DS are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Palumbo
- a Instructor in Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School , Lurie Center for Autism , Lexington , MA , USA
| | - Christopher J McDougle
- b Nancy Lurie Marks Professor in the Field of Autism, Harvard Medical School, Director , Lurie Center for Autism , Lexington , MA , USA
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10
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Caraci F, Iulita MF, Pentz R, Flores Aguilar L, Orciani C, Barone C, Romano C, Drago F, Cuello AC. Searching for new pharmacological targets for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease in Down syndrome. Eur J Pharmacol 2017; 817:7-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2017.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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11
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Fujino H. Psychological Support for Young Adults with Down Syndrome: Dohsa-Hou Program for Maladaptive Behaviors and Internalizing Problems. Front Psychol 2017; 8:1504. [PMID: 28919875 PMCID: PMC5585186 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychological and psychiatric dysfunction is a major problem in a substantial proportion of young adults with Down syndrome. Some patients develop psychiatric issues, such as depressive, obsessive-compulsive, or psychotic-like disorders, in their late adolescence or young adulthood. Furthermore, these individuals may experience moderate to severe emotional and psychological distress. Development of a psychosocial treatment to address these issues is needed in addition to psychotropic medication. The current study reports two cases of young adults with Down syndrome, who presented psychiatric symptoms and marked disruption in their daily lives. These individuals participated in a Dohsa-hou treatment program. Following treatment, adaptive levels, maladaptive behaviors, and internalizing problems were evaluated by the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales-II. Participants showed improvement in maladaptive behaviors and internalizing problems; however, improvement in these areas may be influenced by baseline severity of the problems. This case report suggests that Dohsa-hou could be an effective therapeutic approach for maladaptive and internalizing problems in adults with Down syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruo Fujino
- Department of Special Needs Education, Oita UniversityOita, Japan.,Graduate School of Human Sciences, Osaka UniversityOsaka, Japan
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12
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Mircher C, Cieuta-Walti C, Marey I, Rebillat AS, Cretu L, Milenko E, Conte M, Sturtz F, Rethore MO, Ravel A. Acute Regression in Young People with Down Syndrome. Brain Sci 2017; 7:brainsci7060057. [PMID: 28555009 PMCID: PMC5483630 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci7060057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2017] [Revised: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract: Adolescents and young adults with Down syndrome (DS) can present a rapid regression with loss of independence and daily skills. Causes of regression are unknown and treatment is most of the time symptomatic. We did a retrospective cohort study of regression cases: patients were born between 1959 and 2000, and were followed from 1984 to now. We found 30 DS patients aged 11 to 30 years old with history of regression. Regression occurred regardless of the cognitive level (severe, moderate, or mild intellectual disability (ID)). Patients presented psychiatric symptoms (catatonia, depression, delusions, stereotypies, etc.), partial or total loss of independence in activities of daily living (dressing, toilet, meals, and continence), language impairment (silence, whispered voice, etc.), and loss of academic skills. All patients experienced severe emotional stress prior to regression, which may be considered the trigger. Partial or total recovery was observed for about 50% of them. In our cohort, girls were more frequently affected than boys (64%). Neurobiological hypotheses are discussed as well as preventative and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Laura Cretu
- Jérôme Lejeune Institute, Paris 75015, France.
| | | | | | | | | | - Aimé Ravel
- Jérôme Lejeune Institute, Paris 75015, France.
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13
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Batarseh YS, Duong QV, Mousa YM, Al Rihani SB, Elfakhri K, Kaddoumi A. Amyloid-β and Astrocytes Interplay in Amyloid-β Related Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:338. [PMID: 26959008 PMCID: PMC4813200 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17030338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2015] [Revised: 02/14/2016] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloid-β (Aβ) pathology is known to promote chronic inflammatory responses in the brain. It was thought previously that Aβ is only associated with Alzheimer's disease and Down syndrome. However, studies have shown its involvement in many other neurological disorders. The role of astrocytes in handling the excess levels of Aβ has been highlighted in the literature. Astrocytes have a distinctive function in both neuronal support and protection, thus its involvement in Aβ pathological process may tip the balance toward chronic inflammation and neuronal death. In this review we describe the involvement of astrocytes in Aβ related disorders including Alzheimer's disease, Down syndrome, cerebral amyloid angiopathy, and frontotemporal dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazan S Batarseh
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, LA 70504, USA.
| | - Quoc-Viet Duong
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, LA 70504, USA.
| | - Youssef M Mousa
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, LA 70504, USA.
| | - Sweilem B Al Rihani
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, LA 70504, USA.
| | - Khaled Elfakhri
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, LA 70504, USA.
| | - Amal Kaddoumi
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, LA 70504, USA.
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