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Kleine-Levin syndrome with brain atrophy
Yu-ting Shi1, Bei-sha Tang, Hong Jiang
1Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China.
Summary
Kleine-Levin syndrome (KLS), typically self-limiting, may involve persistent cognitive deficits and brain atrophy. This case highlights long-term neurological and verbal impairments in a patient with KLS.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Kleine-Levin syndrome (KLS) is characterized by recurrent hypersomnia and psychiatric episodes, usually without lasting deficits.
- Emerging evidence suggests potential for persistent memory impairments in KLS patients.
- Cognitive disturbances in KLS remain under-investigated.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old female patient presented with severe neurological and psychiatric symptoms 12 years post-head injury.
- The patient experienced no recurrence of primary KLS symptoms after the initial episode.
- Despite symptom remission, she developed a persistent cognitive disorder and verbal disability.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited significant whole brain atrophy.
- The case demonstrates a rare association between KLS, cognitive decline, and structural brain changes.
- Long-term neurological sequelae, including cognitive and verbal deficits, were observed.
Implications:
- This case underscores the possibility of enduring cognitive impairment and brain atrophy in KLS.
- Further research is needed to understand the long-term neurological impact of KLS.
- The findings may prompt re-evaluation of KLS's self-limiting nature and associated disabilities.
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