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Classic and late-onset neurological disease in two siblings with glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency
E López-Laso1, J García-Villoria, E Martín
1Pediatric Neurology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Reina Sofia, Av. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain. eduardo.lopez.sspa@juntadeandalucia.es
Insights
Glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase (GCDH) deficiency can cause late-onset neurological disease, even in seemingly healthy individuals. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing this rare genetic disorder.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Neurology
Background:
- Glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase (GCDH) deficiency is a rare genetic disorder.
- Late-onset neurological complications are infrequently reported in GCDH deficiency.
Observation:
- Two siblings with GCDH deficiency were studied.
- One sibling presented with classic neurological symptoms; the other, initially asymptomatic, showed academic decline and MRI-diagnosed leukoencephalopathy.
Findings:
- The asymptomatic sibling exhibited severe leukoencephalopathy and mild cognitive impairments (memory, executive function).
- This case highlights the potential for subclinical neurological disease in GCDH deficiency.
Implications:
- Routine family screening for GCDH deficiency can uncover asymptomatic cases with developing neurological changes.
- Early dietary intervention and L-carnitine supplementation are recommended for all diagnosed patients to manage neurological risks.
Abstract:
Late-onset neurological disease has rarely been reported in patients with glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase (GCDH) deficiency. We present two siblings with GCDH deficiency. One of them presented with the classic neurological disease (patient 1). Routine investigation of family members revealed that her apparently unharmed 13-year-old sister was also affected (patient 2). Patient 2 started to have academic difficulties in the months prior to our assessment. Her clinical examination was normal, with the exception of a cranial circumference of 57 cm (slightly over the 98 th centile). A severe leukoencephalopathy was demonstrated on MRI. Neuropsychological assessment showed an IQ within the normal-low range and a mild impairment of memory and executive function. Previous reports on late-onset neurological disease in GCDH deficiency have revealed that progressive leukoencephalopathy develops over time. Following the recently published guideline for the diagnosis and management of GCDH deficiency, both patients are receiving dietary treatment in combination with L-carnitine supplementation. We emphasize the need to search for chronic neurological changes of late-onset type in apparently unaffected GCDH deficiency cases diagnosed in routine family investigations.
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