Basal Ganglia Calcification: A Case Report of Two Siblings With Fahr's Disease

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Neurology

Background:

• Fahr's disease is a rare neurodegenerative disorder characterized by intracranial calcifications.
• It typically follows autosomal dominant inheritance with genetic heterogeneity.
• Clinical manifestations include movement, cognitive, and psychiatric disorders.

Observation:

• Two male siblings presented with psychiatric symptoms as the initial manifestation of Fahr's disease.
• Brain CT scans revealed bilateral basal ganglia calcifications without an identifiable cause.
• No underlying cause for the calcifications was identified.

Findings:

• Psychiatric symptoms and behavioral changes in both siblings showed remission.
• Treatment with psychotropic medications was effective in managing the observed symptoms.

Implications:

• This case series highlights the potential efficacy of psychotropic drugs in managing psychiatric aspects of Fahr's disease.
• Early identification and symptomatic treatment of psychiatric disturbances may improve patient outcomes.
• Further research into the genetic and clinical spectrum of Fahr's disease is warranted.