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Bremova-Ertl T, Hofmann J, Stucki J, Vossenkaul A, Gautschi M. Inborn Errors of Metabolism with Ataxia: Current and Future Treatment Options. Cells 2023; 12:2314. [PMID: 37759536 PMCID: PMC10527548 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182314] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A number of hereditary ataxias are caused by inborn errors of metabolism (IEM), most of which are highly heterogeneous in their clinical presentation. Prompt diagnosis is important because disease-specific therapies may be available. In this review, we offer a comprehensive overview of metabolic ataxias summarized by disease, highlighting novel clinical trials and emerging therapies with a particular emphasis on first-in-human gene therapies. We present disease-specific treatments if they exist and review the current evidence for symptomatic treatments of these highly heterogeneous diseases (where cerebellar ataxia is part of their phenotype) that aim to improve the disease burden and enhance quality of life. In general, a multimodal and holistic approach to the treatment of cerebellar ataxia, irrespective of etiology, is necessary to offer the best medical care. Physical therapy and speech and occupational therapy are obligatory. Genetic counseling is essential for making informed decisions about family planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Bremova-Ertl
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bern (Inselspital) and University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (J.H.); (J.S.)
- Center for Rare Diseases, University Hospital Bern (Inselspital) and University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jan Hofmann
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bern (Inselspital) and University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (J.H.); (J.S.)
| | - Janine Stucki
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bern (Inselspital) and University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (J.H.); (J.S.)
| | - Anja Vossenkaul
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Paediatrics, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (A.V.); (M.G.)
| | - Matthias Gautschi
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Paediatrics, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (A.V.); (M.G.)
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
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Barnes-Vélez JA, Aksoy Yasar FB, Hu J. Myelin lipid metabolism and its role in myelination and myelin maintenance. Innovation (N Y) 2023; 4:100360. [PMID: 36588745 PMCID: PMC9800635 DOI: 10.1016/j.xinn.2022.100360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelin is a specialized cell membrane indispensable for rapid nerve conduction. The high abundance of membrane lipids is one of myelin's salient features that contribute to its unique role as an insulator that electrically isolates nerve fibers across their myelinated surface. The most abundant lipids in myelin include cholesterol, glycosphingolipids, and plasmalogens, each playing critical roles in myelin development as well as function. This review serves to summarize the role of lipid metabolism in myelination and myelin maintenance, as well as the molecular determinants of myelin lipid homeostasis, with an emphasis on findings from genetic models. In addition, the implications of myelin lipid dysmetabolism in human diseases are highlighted in the context of hereditary leukodystrophies and neuropathies as well as acquired disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A. Barnes-Vélez
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054-1901, USA
- MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Houston, TX 77225-0334, USA
- University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, School of Medicine, San Juan, PR 00936-5067, USA
| | - Fatma Betul Aksoy Yasar
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054-1901, USA
- MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Houston, TX 77225-0334, USA
| | - Jian Hu
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054-1901, USA
- MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Houston, TX 77225-0334, USA
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Harrington M, Hareendran A, Skalicky A, Wilson H, Clark M, Mikl J. Assessing the impact on caregivers caring for patients with rare pediatric lysosomal storage diseases: development of the Caregiver Impact Questionnaire. J Patient Rep Outcomes 2019; 3:44. [PMID: 31338630 PMCID: PMC6650510 DOI: 10.1186/s41687-019-0140-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Capturing the impact of caring for patients with debilitating rare disease is important for understanding disease burden. We aimed to develop and validate an instrument to measure the impact on caregivers of caring for children with three lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs): metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), neuronopathic mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II) and mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIA (MPS IIIA). Methods A draft instrument was developed based on targeted literature searches and revised through sequential qualitative interviews with caregivers of patients first with MLD (n = 16), then with MPS II (n = 22), and finally with MPS IIIA (n = 8). The instrument, which covered domains of physical, emotional, social and economic burden, was refined at each stage of development based on caregiver feedback. Saturation of major concepts was reached during concept elicitation (MLD and MPS II). Results It was confirmed that caring for a patient with an LSD impacts social functioning, emotional/psychological functioning, physical functioning, daily activities, and finances/work productivity. Results from cognitive debriefing of the draft questionnaires were considered during each round of interviews, resulting in a final set of items that caregivers found clear and easy to understand. The Caregiver Impact Questionnaire (CIQ) has 30 items in five domains: (1) social functioning (7 items); (2) impact on daily activities (5 items); (3) emotional/psychological functioning (10 items); (4) physical functioning (6 items); and (5) financial impact (2 items). Conclusions These findings demonstrate that the content of the CIQ is relevant for determining the impact of caring on caregivers of patients with MLD, MPS II and MPS IIIA. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s41687-019-0140-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Harrington
- Shire (a member of the Takeda group of companies), Lexington, MA, USA. .,Present Address: Pfizer, 610 Main St, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
| | | | | | - Hilary Wilson
- Evidera, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Present Address: Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, CT, USA
| | | | - Jaromir Mikl
- Shire (a member of the Takeda group of companies), Lexington, MA, USA.,Present Address: Purdue Pharma, Stamford, CT, USA
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Tan EY, Boelens JJ, Jones SA, Wynn RF. Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Inborn Errors of Metabolism. Front Pediatr 2019; 7:433. [PMID: 31709204 PMCID: PMC6824291 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2019.00433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been established as an effective therapy for selected inborn errors of metabolism. The success of HSCT in metabolic disease is best exemplified through the treatment of Hurler's syndrome, a lysosomal storage disease. Through the collaborative effort of several international centers, factors that predict successful patient and transplant outcomes have been identified. In this review, we discuss the principles that underlie the use of HSCT in metabolic diseases. We consider the clinical indications, conditioning regimens, and disease-specific follow-up for HSCT in different metabolic diseases. We highlight persisting challenges in HSCT to delay progression of certain organ systems that remain refractory to HSCT and the relatively high rates of aplastic graft failure. Finally, we evaluate the variable applicability of these principles to other inherited metabolic disorders including peroxisomal, mitochondrial, and other lysosomal storage diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Y Tan
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jaap Jan Boelens
- Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapies, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Simon A Jones
- Metabolic and Blood and Marrow Transplant Units, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Robert F Wynn
- Metabolic and Blood and Marrow Transplant Units, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Raina A, Nair SS, Nagesh C, Thomas B, Nair M, Sundaram S. Electroneurography and Advanced Neuroimaging Profile in Pediatric-onset Metachromatic Leukodystrophy. J Pediatr Neurosci 2019; 14:70-75. [PMID: 31516623 PMCID: PMC6712919 DOI: 10.4103/jpn.jpn_155_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is a rare autosomal-recessive disorder characterized by demyelination of central and peripheral nervous system. There is scarcity of literature on the electrophysiological aspects of peripheral nerves and the advanced neuroimaging findings in MLD. Aim The aim was to study the nerve conduction parameters and advanced neuroimaging findings in patients with MLD. Materials and Methods This study is a retrospective analysis conducted, between 2005 and 2016, of 12 patients who had biochemical, histopathological, or genetic confirmation of MLD and disease onset before 18 years of age. The clinical, electroneurography, and the advanced neuroimaging findings were reviewed and analyzed. Statistical Analysis The data were presented as percentages or mean ± standard deviation as defined appropriate for qualitative and quantitative variables. Results Mean age of onset was 4.84 (±4.60) years and seven patients were males. Eight patients had juvenile MLD and four had late infantile MLD. Clinical presentation of psychomotor regression was more common in infantile MLD (75%), whereas gait difficulty (62.5%) and cognitive impairment (37.5%) were more frequent in juvenile MLD. Nerve conduction study (NCS) revealed diffuse demyelinating sensorimotor peripheral neuropathy in 9 (75%) patients. One patient had a rare presentation with conduction blocks in multiple nerves with contrast enhancement of cauda equina. Diffusion restriction involving periventricular and central white matter was seen in five patients and bilateral globus pallidi blooming was noted in three patients. Conclusion This study highlights the utility of NCS and advanced magnetic resonance imaging sequences in the diagnosis of MLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhinav Raina
- Department of Neurology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| | - Sruthi S Nair
- Department of Neurology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| | - Chinmay Nagesh
- Department of Imaging Sciences and Intervention Radiology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| | - Bejoy Thomas
- Department of Imaging Sciences and Intervention Radiology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| | - Muralidharan Nair
- Department of Neurology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| | - Soumya Sundaram
- Department of Neurology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
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Alfadhel M, Nashabat M, Alrifai MT, Alshaalan H, Al Mutairi F, Al-Shahrani SA, Plecko B, Almass R, Alsagob M, Almutairi FB, Al-Rumayyan A, Al-Twaijri W, Al-Owain M, Taylor RW, Kaya N. Further delineation of the phenotypic spectrum of ISCA2 defect: A report of ten new cases. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2018; 22:46-55. [PMID: 29122497 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2017.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Revised: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Iron-Sulfur Cluster (ISC) biogenesis is a vital cellular process required to produce various ISC-containing proteins. These ISC proteins are responsible for essential functions such as glycine cleavage and the formation of lipoic acid, an essential cofactor of respiratory chain complexes. Defects in ISC biogenesis lead to multiple mitochondrial dysfunction syndromes including: ISCA2 with infantile onset leukodystrophy. Recently, a founder mutation, c.229G > A, p.Gly77Ser in ISCA2 was reported to cause Multiple Mitochondrial Dysfunction Syndrome type 4. In a retrospective review of children diagnosed with the ISCA2 defect, we were able to identify ten new patients who were not reported previously with the identical founder mutation. High CSF glycine levels and elevated glycine peaks on MR spectroscopy were demonstrated in all tested probands. All patients were between 3 and 7 months of age with a triad of neurodevelopmental regression, nystagmus and optic atrophy and leukodystrophy. MRI findings were typical in the patients with diffuse, abnormal white matter signal in the cerebrum, cerebellum, brain stem and spinal cord. The patients ended up in a vegetative state, and often premature death due to respiratory infections. We alert clinicians to consider the ISCA2 defect as a differential diagnosis of infantile onset leukodystrophies affecting the brain as well as the spinal cord, especially in the presence of elevated CSF glycine or elevated glycine peaks in MR spectroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Alfadhel
- Genetics Division, Department of Pediatrics, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Marwan Nashabat
- Genetics Division, Department of Pediatrics, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Talal Alrifai
- Neurology Division, Department of Pediatrics, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hesham Alshaalan
- Medical Imaging Department, King Abdullah Specialized Children Hospital, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs (NGHA), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fuad Al Mutairi
- Genetics Division, Department of Pediatrics, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saif A Al-Shahrani
- Department of Medical Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Barbara Plecko
- Division of Child Neurology, University Children's Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rawan Almass
- Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maysoon Alsagob
- Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faten B Almutairi
- Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Al-Rumayyan
- Neurology Division, Department of Pediatrics, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Al-Twaijri
- Neurology Division, Department of Pediatrics, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Al-Owain
- Department of Medical Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Robert W Taylor
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Institute of Neuroscience, The Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Namik Kaya
- Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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Gore E, Manley A, Dees D, Appleby BS, Lerner AJ. A young-onset frontal dementia with dramatic calcifications due to a novel CSF1R mutation. Neurocase 2016; 22:257-62. [PMID: 27092868 DOI: 10.1080/13554794.2016.1175635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Neuroimaging and genomic analysis greatly aid in the identification of young-onset dementia antemortem. We present the case of a 33-year-old female with a 2-year rapid decline to dementia and immobility marked by personality change, executive deficits including compulsions, attention deficit, apraxia, Parkinsonism, and pyramidal signs. She had unique and dramatic calcifications and confluent white matter changes on imaging and was found to have a novel mutation in the colony stimulating factor 1 receptor gene causing adult-onset leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids and pigmented glia (ALSP). Here, we review ALSP and briefly discuss differential diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Gore
- a Department of Neurology , Case Western Reserve University Hospitals , Beachwood , OH , USA
| | - Andrew Manley
- b Department of Neurology , University of South Alabama , Mobile , AL , USA
| | - Daniel Dees
- b Department of Neurology , University of South Alabama , Mobile , AL , USA
| | - Brian S Appleby
- a Department of Neurology , Case Western Reserve University Hospitals , Beachwood , OH , USA
| | - Alan J Lerner
- a Department of Neurology , Case Western Reserve University Hospitals , Beachwood , OH , USA
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Boucher AA, Miller W, Shanley R, Ziegler R, Lund T, Raymond G, Orchard PJ. Long-term outcomes after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for metachromatic leukodystrophy: the largest single-institution cohort report. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2015; 10:94. [PMID: 26245762 PMCID: PMC4545855 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-015-0313-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) is a rare, fatal demyelinating disorder with limited treatment options. Published outcomes after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) are scant and mixed. We report survival and function following HSCT for a large, single-center MLD cohort. METHODS Transplant-related data, survival and serial measures (brain MRI, nerve conduction velocity (NCV), neurologic and neuropsychology evaluations) were reviewed. When possible, parental interviews informed current neurologic status, quality-of-life, and adaptive functioning. Gross motor and expressive functions for late-infantile (LI-MLD) and juvenile (J-MLD) patients were described using previously reported, MLD-specific scales. RESULTS Forty patients with confirmed MLD have undergone HSCT at our center. Twenty-one (53 %) survive at a median 12 years post-HSCT. Most deaths (n = 17) were treatment-related; two died from disease progression. Survival did not depend upon MLD subtype or symptom status at transplant. LI-MLD patients survive beyond reported life expectancy in untreated disease. Abnormal brain MRI and peripheral nerve conduction velocities (NCV) were common before HSCT. Following transplant, fewer patients experienced MRI progression compared to NCV deterioration. Sixteen LI-MLD and J-MLD survivors were evaluable for long-term gross motor and/or expressive language functioning using existing MLD clinical scoring systems. While most J-MLD patients regressed, the aggregate cohort demonstrated superior retention of function compared to published natural history. Seventeen LI-MLD, J-MLD and adult subtype (A-MLD) survivors were evaluable for long-term adaptive functioning, activities of daily living, and/or cognition. Relative cognitive sparing was observed despite overall global decline. Five sibling pairs (one LI-MLD and four J-MLD), in which at least one underwent transplant in our cohort, were evaluable. Within each familial dyad, survival or function was superior for the treated sibling, or if both siblings were transplanted, for the pre-symptomatic sibling. CONCLUSIONS HSCT is a viable treatment option for MLD, but has significant limitations. Later-onset phenotypes may benefit most from early, pre-symptomatic transplant. Until superior, novel treatment strategies are demonstrated, MLD patients should be carefully considered for HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander A Boucher
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Weston Miller
- Division of Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplantation, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 484, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Ryan Shanley
- Biostatistics Core, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Richard Ziegler
- Division of Pediatric Clinical Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Troy Lund
- Division of Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplantation, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 484, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Gerald Raymond
- Division of Pediatric Clinical Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Paul J Orchard
- Division of Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplantation, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 484, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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Yang E, Prabhu SP. Imaging manifestations of the leukodystrophies, inherited disorders of white matter. Radiol Clin North Am 2014; 52:279-319. [PMID: 24582341 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcl.2013.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The leukodystrophies are a diverse set of inherited white matter disorders and are uncommonly encountered by radiologists in everyday practice. As a result, it is challenging to recognize these disorders and to provide a useful differential for the referring physician. In this article, leukodystrophies are reviewed from the perspective of 4 imaging patterns: global myelination delay, periventricular/deep white matter predominant, subcortical white matter predominant, and mixed white/gray matter involvement patterns. Special emphasis is placed on pattern recognition and unusual combinations of findings that may suggest a specific diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Yang
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Sanjay P Prabhu
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Abstract
The prenatal and infantile neuropathies are an uncommon and complex group of conditions, most of which are genetic. Despite advances in diagnostic techniques, approximately half of children presenting in infancy remain without a specific diagnosis. This review focuses on inherited demyelinating neuropathies presenting in the first year of life. We clarify the nomenclature used in these disorders, review the clinical features of demyelinating forms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease with early onset, and discuss the demyelinating infantile neuropathies associated with central nervous system involvement. Useful clinical, neurophysiologic, and neuropathologic features in the diagnostic work-up of these conditions are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eppie M Yiu
- Children's Neuroscience Centre, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Kehrer C, Blumenstock G, Gieselmann V, Krägeloh-Mann I. The natural course of gross motor deterioration in metachromatic leukodystrophy. Dev Med Child Neurol 2011; 53:850-855. [PMID: 21707604 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-8749.2011.04028.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIM Motor deterioration is a key feature in metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD). The lack of data about its natural course impedes evaluation of therapeutic interventions. This study aimed to provide data about motor decline in MLD. METHOD Fifty-nine patients (27 males, 32 females) with MLD (21 with late-infantile MLD and 38 with juvenile MLD) were recruited within a nationwide survey (the German LEUKONET). Median (range) age at onset was 17 months (9-27) for the group with late-infantile MLD and 6 years 2 months (2y 11mo-14y) for the group with juvenile MLD. Gross motor function was assessed using the Gross Motor Function Classification for MLD. RESULTS In late-infantile MLD, all patients showed loss of all gross motor function until 3 years 4 months of age. Patients with juvenile MLD showed a more variable and significantly longer motor decline (p<0.001). For a patient with the juvenile form showing first gait disturbances, the probability of remaining stable for more than 1 year was 84%, and 51% for more than 2 years. Having lost independent walking, subsequent motor decline was as steep as in the late-infantile form (median 5 mo, interquartile range 3-22). INTERPRETATION The course of motor disease was more variable in juvenile MLD with respect to onset and dynamics. However, the motor decline after the loss of independent walking was similarly steep in both forms. These data can serve as a reference for clinical studies that are topics of current research and allow definition of inclusion/exclusion criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Kehrer
- Department of Paediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen. Department of Medical Biometry, University of Tübingen, Tübingen. Department of Physiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Gunnar Blumenstock
- Department of Paediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen. Department of Medical Biometry, University of Tübingen, Tübingen. Department of Physiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Volkmar Gieselmann
- Department of Paediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen. Department of Medical Biometry, University of Tübingen, Tübingen. Department of Physiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ingeborg Krägeloh-Mann
- Department of Paediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen. Department of Medical Biometry, University of Tübingen, Tübingen. Department of Physiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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- Department of Paediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen. Department of Medical Biometry, University of Tübingen, Tübingen. Department of Physiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Artigalás O, Lagranha VL, Saraiva-Pereira ML, Burin MG, Lourenço CM, van der Linden H, Santos MLF, Rosemberg S, Steiner CE, Kok F, de Souza CFM, Jardim LB, Giugliani R, Schwartz IV. Clinical and biochemical study of 29 Brazilian patients with metachromatic leukodystrophy. J Inherit Metab Dis 2010; 33 Suppl 3:S257-62. [PMID: 20596894 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-010-9140-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2010] [Revised: 05/26/2010] [Accepted: 06/28/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is a lysosomal disorder caused by arylsulfatase A (ARSA) deficiency. It is classified into three forms according to the age of onset of symptoms (late infantile, juvenile, and adult). We carried out a cross-sectional and retrospective study, which aimed to determine the epidemiological, clinical, and biochemical profile of MLD patients from a national reference center for Inborn Errors of Metabolism in Brazil. Twenty-nine patients (male, 17) agreed to participate in the study (late infantile form: 22; juvenile form: 4; adult form: 1; asymptomatic: 2). Mean ages at onset of symptoms and at biochemical diagnosis were, respectively, 19 and 39 months for late infantile form and 84.7 and 161.2 months for juvenile form. The most frequently reported first clinical symptom/sign of the disease was gait disturbance and other motor abnormalities (72.7%) for late infantile form and behavioral and cognitive alterations (50%) for juvenile form. Leukocyte ARSA activity level did not present significant correlation with the age of onset of symptoms (r = -0.09, p = 0.67). Occipital white matter and basal nuclei abnormalities were not found in patients with the late infantile MLD. Our results suggest that there is a considerable delay between the age of onset of signs and symptoms and the diagnosis of MLD in Brazil. Correlation between ARSA activity and MLD clinical form was not found. Further studies on the epidemiology and natural history of this disease with larger samples are needed, especially now when specific treatments should be available in the near future.
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Mahmood A, Berry J, Wenger DA, Escolar M, Sobeih M, Raymond G, Eichler FS. Metachromatic leukodystrophy: a case of triplets with the late infantile variant and a systematic review of the literature. J Child Neurol 2010; 25:572-80. [PMID: 20038527 PMCID: PMC4301611 DOI: 10.1177/0883073809341669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Metachromatic leukodystrophy is a rare disorder with great clinical variability. We report the first case of triplets with the late infantile form of the disease and their systematic progression of symptoms. We reviewed the literature and identified all human studies that reported new cases since 1921. We analyzed survival by decade to assess the impact of historical changes in the management of care. Mean age at death and the 5-year survival from onset of symptoms for late infantile, juvenile, and adult phenotypes were 4.2 years and 24.9%, 17.4 years and 70.3%, and 43.1 years and 88.6%, respectively. The 5-year survival of cases reported after 1990 was significantly better than cases reported before 1970 in all subtypes of metachromatic leukodystrophy (late infantile: 52% vs 14%, juvenile: 100% vs 46%, adult: 95% vs 67%). Survival in the late infantile subtype was worse than that in other subtypes. Survival significantly improved over time in all subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asif Mahmood
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
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14
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Peripheral neuropathy as the sole initial finding in three children with infantile metachromatic leukodystrophy. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2009; 13:257-60. [PMID: 18571943 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2008.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2007] [Revised: 04/28/2008] [Accepted: 04/30/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is a progressive white matter disease caused by arylsulfatase A deficiency. Demyelination in the nervous system is detected by cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and neurophysiological studies. We present three children with infantile MLD, who had difficulties in standing and walking with absent reflexes. Protein levels in cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) were elevated and nerve conduction studies revealed slowing down of motor nerve conduction velocity. Initial cerebral MRIs showed no white matter changes. Consecutively, all three children developed clinical symptoms of neurodegenerative disease. Follow-up MRI and arylsulfatase A testing led to diagnosis of MLD. We conclude, that in young children who present with an acute/subacute demyelinating polyneuropathy, MLD is a differential diagnosis.
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Ding XQ, Wittkugel O, Goebell E, Förster AF, Grzyska U, Zeumer H, Fiehler J. Clinical applications of quantitative T2 determination: a complementary MRI tool for routine diagnosis of suspected myelination disorders. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2008; 12:298-308. [PMID: 17964834 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2007.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2007] [Revised: 06/22/2007] [Accepted: 08/22/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Though magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays an important role in studying pathological changes in central nervous system, a quantitative measure of contrast variance on MRI, allowing the detection of subtle signal variances in pathological processes, is not readily available for routine imaging. We report on the first experiences with evaluation of routine T2 relaxation time measurement as a diagnostic tool in routine imaging of suspected myelination disorders. METHODS Twenty patients suffering from defined or suspected myelination disorders were examined by MRI. T2 relaxation time maps of the brain were derived from a triple spin echo sequence. T2 values were measured for each patient by regions of interest (ROI) analysis. As references age-dependent T2 prediction values in normal maturating brains were calculated by using a biexponentional function reported earlier. Deviations from these prediction values were used as an assisting tool both for detection of pathology and for monitoring of changes over time. These quantitative results were compared to conventional visual inspections by two independent neuroradiologists. RESULTS In 18 patients with single diagnostic MRI, the T2 measurements were more graduated or definite in 9/18 cases, confirmatory in 9/18 cases. In two patients with MRI follow up, the dynamic clinical course of the disease had no correlate in visual inspection of the images but was associated with the quantitative T2 values. CONCLUSIONS Quantitative T2 measurement is a promising tool for routine imaging as a complementary method in detecting and monitoring of suspected myelination disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Qi Ding
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
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16
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Hung PC, Wang HS. Diffuse leukoencephalopathy: unusual sonographic finding in an infant with mitochondrial disease. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2007; 35:277-80. [PMID: 17354245 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.20315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Several mitochondrial diseases are known to occasionally involve the cerebral white matter, but in these cases the major findings are involved in the basal ganglia and brainstem. We report a case of diffuse white matter involvement in an infant with mitochondrial disease that was diagnosed via mitochondrial DNA analysis. Mitochondrial disease should be considered in the diagnosis of diffuse leukoencephalopathy in infancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Cheng Hung
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 5 Fu-Hsing Street, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
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17
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Anlar B, Waye JS, Eng B, Oguz KK. Atypical clinical course in juvenile metachromatic leukodystrophy involving novel arylsulfatase A gene mutations. Dev Med Child Neurol 2006; 48:383-7. [PMID: 16608548 DOI: 10.1017/s001216220600082x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/25/2005] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
A male and female with juvenile metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) with unusual manifestations are presented, each involving a novel arylsulfatase A gene mutation. One patient demonstrated acute intermittent encephalopathic episodes for 1 year after having received the diagnosis of MLD at the age of 6 years. The other patient presented at the age of 5 years with acute hemiparesis, which was diagnosed as acute disseminated encephalomyelitis and resolved in 3 weeks. After 2 years of remission he started to show progressive neurological deterioration. The episodic manifestations in both patients were associated with acute, resolving cerebral lesions on magnetic resonance imaging accompanying or preceding the classical demyelinating lesions of MLD. The diagnosis of MLD was based on arylsulfatase A enzyme activity levels and genetic analysis, and after the exclusion of neurological conditions such as encephalitis, vasculopathy, or mitochondrial disorders. The pathogenesis of this previously undescribed finding in MLD is unknown but might be related to a susceptibility of myelin to acute damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banu Anlar
- Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Paediatric Neurology, Ankara, Turkey.
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18
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Bindu PS, Mahadevan A, Taly AB, Christopher R, Gayathri N, Shankar SK. Peripheral neuropathy in metachromatic leucodystrophy. A study of 40 cases from south India. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2005; 76:1698-701. [PMID: 16291896 PMCID: PMC1739439 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.2005.063776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a paucity of literature from India on metachromatic leucodystrophy (MLD), a rare metabolic disorder of childhood resulting from aryl sulfatase A (ASA) deficiency.Patients/ METHODS Case records of histopathologically verified cases of MLD, evaluated over a period of 12 years at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India, were reviewed. RESULTS The late infantile group (36) manifested with regression of milestones (all), delayed mile stones (14), gait abnormalities (14), and seizures (11). Despite spasticity (29), there was hypo/areflexia in 25 patients. Optic atrophy (six) was rare. Consanguinity was noted in 25 children and four had a history of similar illness in siblings. Behavioural problems dominated in the juvenile group (four), but associated cognitive decline and hyporeflexia provided a clue to the diagnosis. Low serum ASA (seven of 20), raised cerebrospinal fluid protein (five of 12), and urinary metachromatic granules (two of 32) were infrequent. Electrophysiological evidence of severe demyelinating and length dependent sensory motor neuropathy was observed in all, even in the presence of hyper-reflexia. In addition to metachromatic dysmyelinating neuropathy in all patients, sural nerve biopsy in 20 patients revealed orthochromatic deposits within perivascular macrophages, particularly among those patients with normal ASA values (11 of 14), suggesting the accumulation of other glycosphingolipids. CONCLUSIONS This study produced some noteworthy observations: the high degree of consanguinity associated with MLD in India, the existence of MLD with normal serum concentrations of ASA, the deposition of orthochromatic lipids, and electrophysiological evidence of a partial conduction block.
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Affiliation(s)
- P S Bindu
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Hosur Road, Bangalore 560029, India
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19
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Cameron CL, Kang PB, Burns TM, Darras BT, Jones HR. Multifocal slowing of nerve conduction in metachromatic leukodystrophy. Muscle Nerve 2004; 29:531-6. [PMID: 15052618 DOI: 10.1002/mus.10569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Polyneuropathy is invariably associated with the late-infantile form of metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), and occurs frequently in the early juvenile, juvenile, and adult variants. Uniform slowing of nerve conduction velocity is the neurophysiologic hallmark of metachromatic leukodystrophy and other inherited demyelinating polyneuropathies. To evaluate the consistency of this principle, we reviewed nerve conduction studies in 9 children with late-infantile or early-juvenile metachromatic leukodystrophy. Each child had significant slowing of motor nerve conduction velocity (NCV). The compound muscle action potentials showed abnormal temporal dispersion in 3 of the 9 children, which is usually regarded as the hallmark of acquired demyelinating polyneuropathies. There are reports of multifocal slowing in other hereditary processes including X-linked Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies, and adrenomyeloneuropathy. Although multifocal NCV slowing in a child with polyneuropathy is seen most commonly in acquired conditions, a hereditary process, including MLD, cannot always be excluded in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol L Cameron
- Department of Neurology, Lahey Clinic, 41 Mall Road, Burlington, Massachusetts 01805, USA
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20
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Burns TM, Ryan MM, Darras B, Jones HR. Current therapeutic strategies for patients with polyneuropathies secondary to inherited metabolic disorders. Mayo Clin Proc 2003; 78:858-68. [PMID: 12839082 DOI: 10.4065/78.7.858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Supportive care, symptomatic treatment, and patient education should be provided for patients with inherited or acquired polyneuropathies. In addition, specific treatment is available for many of the acquired polyneuropathies. Genetic counseling is valuable for many patients with inherited polyneuropathies, but only rarely is specific treatment an option for these patients. However, specific treatments are available for many of the rare and devastating systemic disorders associated with polyneuropathies. Thus, clinicians must promptly diagnose these inherited disorders so that specific treatment may be initiated. The clinical features of these rare inherited disorders are emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ted M Burns
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville 22908, USA
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21
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Abstract
Cerebral magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy form an integral part in the diagnosis and management of the vast spectrum of metabolic and degenerative disorders in children. These varied disorders have been classified in many different ways, according to anatomic location, head size, enzyme disorder, or cellular morphology and function. The clinical features and magnetic resonance imaging appearances of the most common disorders are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric N Faerber
- MCP-Hahnemann School of Medicine, and the Department of Radiology, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19134, USA.
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22
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Abstract
The classification of diseases affecting white matter has changed dramatically with the use of magnetic resonance imaging. Classical leukodystrophies, such as metachromatic leukodystrophy and Krabbe's disease, account for only a small number of inherited diseases that affect white matter. Magnetic resonance imaging has clarified genetic disorders that result in white matter changes or leukoencephalopathies. The term leukoencephalopathy is used to reflect the broader number of diseases that may cause as either primary or secondary changes in myelin development. This review attempts to categorize white matter disorders into classes such as lipid, myelin protein, organic acids, and defects in energy metabolism, in addition to other causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Kaye
- Section of Biochemical Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-4399, USA
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23
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Abstract
The unusual presentation of juvenile onset metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) and frequent complex partial seizures in a patient led us to perform a retrospective study of 18 patients with MLD to identify the prevalence and type of recurrent seizures during the first 2 years of the disease. Five of 17 patients (29%) had developed recurrent seizures within 12 months of the onset of symptoms, and one patient was lost to follow-up. By 24 months after onset of symptoms, 5 patients were lost to follow-up, and 6 of the remaining 13 patients (46%) had developed recurrent seizures. In all, 7 patients, 4 with late infantile-onset and 3 with juvenile-onset disease, developed recurrent seizures. Four patients, including 3 with juvenile-onset disease had complex partial seizures. We conclude that recurrent seizures are common in MLD and may occur at any stage of the disease, particularly in patients with juvenile onset. Generalized seizures are more frequent in patients with late infantile-onset, whereas partial seizures are more common in those with juvenile-onset disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Balslev
- Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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24
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Nevo Y, Pestronk A, Lopate G, Carroll SL. Neuropathy of metachromatic leukodystrophy: improvement with immunomodulation. Pediatr Neurol 1996; 15:237-9. [PMID: 8916163 DOI: 10.1016/s0887-8994(96)00164-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
A 4-year-old child with metachromatic leukodystrophy was initially diagnosed with chronic immune demyelinating polyneuropathy and treated with immunosuppressive therapy. Physical examination revealed diffuse, distal > proximal weakness and areflexia. Electro-diagnostic studies revealed nerve conduction velocities that were slowed to variable degrees in different nerves. In the 18 months after institution of immunomodulating therapy, she had functionally significant improvement and a quantitative increase in her strength. Treatment was discontinued at age 6 years when the patient developed urinary incontinence, followed by loss of motor and cognitive skills. We conclude that immunomodulation early in the course of metachromatic leukodystrophy presenting as a neuropathy may result in temporary functional improvement. Whether the immunomodulation altered the disease progression or had direct effects on the function of the dysmyelinated axons is not known.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Nevo
- Department of Neurology, Barnes and St. Louis Children's Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine, USA
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25
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Abstract
Patients at any age who develop regression of learned skills, onset of dementia, loss of motor control and organ enlargement should be considered for lysosomal screening. Morphological and biochemical screening methods may reinforce the clinical suspicion, but they are not diagnostic. A widespread use of enzyme assays that appear to be related to the clinical problems is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Ullrich
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Münster, Germany
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26
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McDowell GA, Cowan TM, Blitzer MG, Greene CL. Intrafamilial variability in Hurler syndrome and Sanfilippo syndrome type A: implications for evaluation of new therapies. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS 1993; 47:1092-5. [PMID: 7507293 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.1320470732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Intrafamilial variability has not been reported previously in Hurler syndrome or Sanfilippo syndrome type A. We describe two families in which sibs with comparable deficiencies of alpha-iduronidase (Hurler) or sulfamidase (Sanfilippo type A) activities in vitro nonetheless have divergence in clinical severity and disease progression. These cases underscore the need for caution in counseling as well as the limitations of using sibs as controls in evaluating the outcome of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A McDowell
- Human Genetics Branch, National Institutes of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Rockville, Maryland
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27
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Barth ML, Fensom A, Harris A. Prevalence of common mutations in the arylsulphatase A gene in metachromatic leukodystrophy patients diagnosed in Britain. Hum Genet 1993; 91:73-7. [PMID: 8095918 DOI: 10.1007/bf00230227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The frequency of two common disease-associated mutations in the arylsulphatase A (ASA) gene, and of a mutation causing ASA pseudodeficiency, have been established in metachromatic leukodystrophy patients diagnosed in our laboratory. A total of 37 mutant genes have been analysed. The G-->A change destroying the splice donor site of exon 2 is generally associated with more severe disease and was found in 43.2% of mutant ASA genes. The C-->T transition causing a proline to leucine substitution at position 426 in exon 8 (P426-->L) is associated with later onset disease, and was found in 16.2% of mutant genes. The A-->G transition leading to loss of a polyadenylation signal associated with ASA pseudodeficiency was present at a frequency of 7.5% in the patients and heterozygotes studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Barth
- Division of Medical and Molecular Genetics, UMDS-Guy's Campus, London, UK
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28
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Abstract
The leukodystrophies are degenerative diseases that involve primarily the white matter of the brain. The most common leukodystrophies result from known disturbances in the synthesis or catabolism of myelin such as a block in the catabolism of sulphatides and of galactocerebrosides, respectively, in metachromatic leukodystrophy and in Krabbe disease, or from synthesis of an abnormal proteolipid protein in Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease. The cause of white matter involvement in other leukodystrophies remains unknown even though metabolic anomalies, such as accumulation of acetylaspartic acid in Canavan disease, have been demonstrated. Common clinical features of the leukodystrophies include neurological deterioration following a period of normal development, predominant involvement of motor function at least initially, and absence of convulsions or myoclonus. Imaging-especially magnetic resonance-shows changes in density or signal from central white matter. Most leukodystrophies feature suggestive symptoms and signs such as effects on peripheral nerves' myelin in Krabbe disease and metachromatic leukodystrophy, or X-linked inheritance and slow deterioration in Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease. Therapy of the leukodystrophies is purely symptomatic in most cases. Trials of bone marrow transplantation are being pursued for metachromatic leukodystrophy and adrenoleukodystrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Aicardi
- Hôpital des Enfants Malades, Paris, France
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29
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Shapiro EG, Lipton ME, Krivit W. White matter dysfunction and its neuropsychological correlates: a longitudinal study of a case of metachromatic leukodystrophy treated with bone marrow transplant. J Clin Exp Neuropsychol 1992; 14:610-24. [PMID: 1356997 DOI: 10.1080/01688639208402848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2022]
Abstract
A 10-year-old white female who had received a bone marrow transplant (BMT) at 57 months of age as treatment for late infantile onset metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), a neurodegenerative autosomal recessive storage disease, showed stabilization of the cognitive degenerative process and demonstrated a partial pattern of cognitive deficits and behavioral abnormalities that has been called NLD (nonverbal learning disabilities) associated with white matter disease. A pattern of good rote memory, reading skills, and concrete language contrasted with poor visual spatial skills, mathematics, and abstract problem solving. She did not show the usual speech prosody and social deficits associated with NLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- E G Shapiro
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, University of Minnesota
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30
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Zambrino CA, Balottin U, Minelli A, Rossi G, Lanzi G. Metachromatic leukodystrophy: on an atypical case. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGICAL SCIENCES 1992; 13:617-9. [PMID: 1428798 DOI: 10.1007/bf02233408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
We describe an atypical case of juvenile metachromatic leukodystrophy. Motor conduction velocity was still within the normal range 3 years after clinical onset, in contrast to what is commonly found in this disease. Another unusual feature is the normal level of CSF protein. These data are discussed in the light of the sural nerve biopsy findings, which revealed only slight impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Zambrino
- Divisione di Neuropsichiatria Infantile, IRCCS Fondazione Istituto Neurologico C. Mondino, Università di Pavia
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Mahdi AH. Genetically determined neurodegenerative disorders: experiences in Saudi Arabia. ANNALS OF TROPICAL PAEDIATRICS 1991; 11:17-23. [PMID: 1714690 DOI: 10.1080/02724936.1991.11747473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
There is, to date, hardly any literature on genetic neurodegenerative disorders from developing countries. This paper reports a study of 98 Saudi children with genetic neurodegenerative disorders. The four most encountered diagnoses were: spinal muscular atrophy, storage (lysosomal) disorders, neurocutaneous syndromes and aminoacidopathies. Consanguinity has been noted in about 50% of the families. In view of the major advances made in recent years in the recognition and treatment of these disorders, the role of the physician is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A H Mahdi
- Department of Paediatrics, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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33
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The relationship of the metachromatic leukodystrophies to neuropsychiatric disorders. MOLECULAR AND CHEMICAL NEUROPATHOLOGY 1990; 13:81-94. [PMID: 1982780 DOI: 10.1007/bf03159910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The possible relationship between the metachromatic leukodystrophies and neuropsychiatric disorders is reviewed. Four kinds of evidence are considered: psychiatric symptoms as preemergent markers of the neurodegenerative process; increased behavioral problems in leukodystrophy families; screening for low enzyme levels among psychiatric populations; and studies in model systems. Whereas the basic postulate of an increased risk for psychiatric problems among individuals with lower levels of the enzymes deficient in the leukodystrophies remains attractive, there is no strong evidence in its support. Low enzyme levels can be found in psychiatric populations, but they may not be any more frequent than in the general population.
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34
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Krivit W, Shapiro E, Kennedy W, Lipton M, Lockman L, Smith S, Summers CG, Wenger DA, Tsai MY, Ramsay NK. Treatment of late infantile metachromatic leukodystrophy by bone marrow transplantation. N Engl J Med 1990; 322:28-32. [PMID: 1967188 DOI: 10.1056/nejm199001043220106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- W Krivit
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
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36
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Wierzbicki AS, Tozer RG, Lolin Y, Lascelles PT, Thomas S, Hjelm M. Screening for inherited metabolic diseases in adults with neurological disease. Lancet 1988; 1:1101. [PMID: 2896923 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(88)91913-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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37
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Krivit W, Lipton ME, Lockman LA, Tsai M, Dyck PJ, Smith S, Ramsay NK, Kersey J. Prevention of deterioration in metachromatic leukodystrophy by bone marrow transplantation. Am J Med Sci 1987; 294:80-5. [PMID: 3307409 DOI: 10.1097/00000441-198708000-00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The first girl in a family was affected with late infantile metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) and had the expected characteristic central nervous system progressive deterioration, which resulted in decerebration and death. The second girl (propositus) demonstrated similar symptoms and signs at the same age. Both girls had characteristically low arylsulfatase A levels. The propositus underwent allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) from a normal histocompatible sibling. Two and a half years later, the propositus has not developed the intellectual and neurologic impairment demonstrated by the first sibling, although nerve conduction has continued to worsen. These results suggest that the induction of normal enzyme levels by BMT may be retarding or inhibiting CNS deterioration. These results, confirming earlier results of others, are sufficiently promising to warrant a larger scale critical trial of BMT early in the course of MLD.
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39
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Srivastava PC, Powling MJ, Nokes TJ, Patrick AD, Dawes J, Hardisty RM. Grey platelet syndrome: studies on platelet alpha-granules, lysosomes and defective response to thrombin. Br J Haematol 1987; 65:441-6. [PMID: 3580300 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2141.1987.tb04147.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The platelets of a young man with the grey platelet syndrome were severely depleted of all seven alpha-granule proteins assayed as well as partially deficient in alpha-mannosidase and alpha-fucosidase; four other lysosomal enzymes were present in normal concentrations. Total platelet 5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT) and adenine nucleotides were normal, and 14C-5HT uptake reached normal levels only slightly more slowly than a control. Aggregation and dense body secretion occurred normally in response to ADP, adrenaline, collagen, PAF-acether, sodium arachidonate, A23187, Ionomycin, TPA and U44069, but were very delayed in response to thrombin. The increase in cytosolic free calcium in response to thrombin was very slow and much reduced in amplitude, whether in the presence or absence of extracellular Ca2+. These defects in response to thrombin were not corrected by the separate addition of purified alpha-granule proteins or by a whole releasate from normal platelets. It is suggested that these platelets, in addition to their alpha-granule deficiency, may have a specific defect of thrombin receptor-mediated activation of phospholipase C.
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40
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Abstract
A 23-year-old patient suffering from mental deterioration was referred for CT study following her first epileptic fit. The study disclosed generalized atrophy and diffuse symmetric white matter hypodensities. Similar findings were found in her 13-year-old retarded sister. The diagnosis of metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) was confirmed by the finding of low arylsulfatase A (ASA) levels in cultured fibroblasts in both sisters. MRI study revealed widespread high intensity signals of T2 nature in the periventricular regions indicating changes in white matter composition.
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Nishio H, Kodama S, Matsuo T. Analysis of fatty acids and sphingosines from urinary sulfatides in a patient with metachromatic leukodystrophy by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Brain Dev 1985; 7:614-21. [PMID: 3832951 DOI: 10.1016/s0387-7604(85)80010-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The urinary sulfatides in metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Fatty acids and long chain bases were obtained after methanolysis. C22:0 and C22h:0 were major components of the fatty acids distributed in the urinary sulfatides in MLD while they were only minor components of the fatty acids in the brain sulfatides in a control subject. These results were in accordance with the report of Philippart et al. It was suggested that the urinary sulfatides originated not in the brain but in other organs. The mass spectra of the trimethylsilyl derivatives of the hydroxy fatty acid methyl esters always showed peaks at m/z (M-15-28)+ and (M-59)+, indicating that the hydroxy group was on carbon 2. Two kinds of long chain base were identified: C18-sphingosine and 3-O-methyl-C18-sphingosine. The latter compound may be a by-product formed on methanolysis.
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Abstract
The author delineates essential parts of the neurologic examination, discusses the value of various subtle neurologic signs, suggests a differential diagnosis, and recommends guidelines for communication of the findings to parents and referring school personnel as well as the indications for referral to a neurologist.
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Case records of the Massachusetts General Hospital. Weekly clinicopathological exercises. Case 7-1984. A 34-year old man with progressive quadriparesis and mental deterioration. N Engl J Med 1984; 310:445-55. [PMID: 6694684 DOI: 10.1056/nejm198402163100708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Tønnesen T, Schultz Andersen M, Burkart T, Christomanou H, Brøndum Nielsen K, Wiesmann UN. An unusual form of arylsulfatase A deficiency combined with sulfatide-excretion and a normal sulfatide-loading. ACTA PAEDIATRICA SCANDINAVICA 1983; 72:837-41. [PMID: 6143469 DOI: 10.1111/j.1651-2227.1983.tb09826.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
A 7-year-old girl who showed retarded psychomotor development and generalized hypotonia without any signs of progression is described. Marked deficiency of arylsulfatase A activity in leukocytes and fibroblasts was observed. Both parents showed activity in cultured fibroblasts within the heterozygote-normal range. Cerebroside-sulfatase activity was absent in cultured fibroblasts from the patient. Urinary analyses revealed a pathologically increased sulfatide excretion. Normal sensory nerve conduction velocity was found, but no metachromatic material was found in a sural nerve biopsy. Loading of the patient's fibroblasts with sulfatides resulted in normal uptake and normal degradation.
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