Hypomyelination with atrophy of the basal ganglia and cerebellum: case report
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Published on: March 24, 2023
André Palma da Cunha Matta1, Márcia Cristina Antunes Ribas
1Serviço de Neurologia, Hospital Universitário, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brazil. andrepcmatta@hotmail.com
Insights
Hypomyelination with atrophy of the basal ganglia and cerebellum (H-ABC) is a rare pediatric leukoencephalopathy. This case highlights its typical presentation and progressive neurological decline.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Genetics
Background:
- Hypomyelination with atrophy of the basal ganglia and cerebellum (H-ABC) is a recently described rare leukoencephalopathy.
- It is crucial to consider H-ABC in the differential diagnosis of pediatric leukoencephalopathies.
Observation:
- A case of an 11-month-old boy with H-ABC is presented.
- The patient exhibited global developmental delay, oral dyskinesia, dystonia, and spasticity.
Findings:
- Magnetic resonance imaging revealed characteristic features of H-ABC.
- Clinical laboratory tests were unremarkable, ruling out common causes.
- A progressive neurological deterioration was observed, with worsening involuntary movements.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing H-ABC in children with unexplained neurological deficits.
- Early diagnosis and understanding of H-ABC progression are vital for patient management.
- Further research into H-ABC pathogenesis and treatment is warranted.
Abstract:
Hypomyelination with atrophy of the basal ganglia and cerebellum (H-ABC) is a rare disease that has been recently described. It must be remembered as a possible etiology of leukoencephalopathies in children. We describe a typical case of H-ABC in a 11-month-old boy. He presents with global development delay, oral dyskinesia, and global dystonia and spasticity. Magnetic resonance imaging disclosed typical features of H-ABC and clinical laboratory tests were all negative. A slow neurological deterioration has been detected with worsening of involuntary movements.
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