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Brain SPECT in Sydenham's chorea in remission
Rogério Beato1, Cristiano Ferrari Siqueira, Belmonte J Marroni
1Movement Disorders Unit, Neurology Service, Internal Medicine Department, The Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
Summary
Brain imaging reveals persistent basal ganglia hyperperfusion in women with Sydenham's chorea (SC) even after symptom remission. This suggests ongoing neurological changes in SC patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Radiology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Sydenham's chorea (SC), a rheumatic fever manifestation, involves chorea, behavioral, and cognitive issues.
- Basal ganglia perfusion abnormalities are common in SC patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate persistent brain perfusion changes in women with Sydenham's chorea in remission.
Main Methods:
- Brain single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) was performed on 12 adult women with SC in remission.
- Perfusion in frontal lobes and basal ganglia was quantified and compared to age-matched controls.
Main Results:
- A significant pattern of hyperperfusion was observed in the left putamen of SC patients (P = 0.02).
- No significant perfusion differences were found in other brain regions.
Conclusions:
- Brain SPECT findings indicate that basal ganglia perfusion abnormalities may persist post-remission in Sydenham's chorea.
- These persistent changes highlight potential long-term neurological effects of SC.
