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Published on: January 25, 2018
Childhood-onset HAM/TSP with progressive cognitive impairment
Giovanna Zorzi1, Roberta Mancuso, Nardo Nardocci
1Department of Child Neurology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy.
Summary
Childhood-onset HTLV-I associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) can present with cognitive and behavioral issues, not just motor deficits. This case highlights the diverse neurological manifestations of HTLV-I infection in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Genetics
Background:
- HTLV-I associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) is a chronic neurological disorder typically affecting adults.
- Childhood-onset HAM/TSP is rare, with most cases exhibiting motor and sphincter dysfunction similar to adults.
Observation:
- A young male presented with progressive cognitive and behavioral disturbances alongside myelopathy symptoms.
- HTLV-I infection was confirmed serologically and through molecular analysis of proviral DNA.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited cognitive decline and behavioral changes as primary symptoms of childhood-onset HAM/TSP.
- Molecular analysis of HTLV-I proviral DNA and HLA genotype inheritance provided insights into the transmission and presentation.
Implications:
- This case broadens the understanding of HAM/TSP, suggesting cognitive dysfunction as a potential pediatric manifestation.
- Early recognition of diverse neurological symptoms is crucial for diagnosing and managing HTLV-I infection in children.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying cognitive impairment in pediatric HAM/TSP.
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