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Elevated manganese levels associated with dementia and extrapyramidal signs
Neurology
|March 1, 1977
Abstract:
In a patient with elevated manganese levels, dementia, and an extrapyramidal syndrome, brain biopsy showed numerous neuritic plaques and neurofibrillary tangles typical of Alzheimer's disease. Manganese was elevated beyond toxic levels in serum, hair, urine, feces, and brain. The possible relationship of elevated manganese levels, dementia, and the extrapyramidal syndrome warrants further studies of similar cases.
Insights
High manganese levels were found in a patient with dementia and Alzheimer's-like brain changes. Further research is needed to explore the link between manganese toxicity, cognitive decline, and neurological symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
- Neuropathology
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dementia.
- Extrapyramidal syndromes involve movement disorders.
- Manganese is an essential trace element, but elevated levels can be toxic.
Observation:
- A patient presented with dementia and an extrapyramidal syndrome.
- Brain biopsy revealed neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease: neuritic plaques and neurofibrillary tangles.
- Significantly elevated manganese levels were detected in serum, hair, urine, feces, and brain tissue.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited Alzheimer's disease-like pathology alongside severe manganese elevation.
- Manganese levels exceeded known toxic thresholds across multiple biological samples.
- A potential correlation between manganese toxicity, dementia, and extrapyramidal symptoms was observed.
Implications:
- This case suggests a possible role of manganese toxicity in the development of dementia and extrapyramidal syndromes.
- Further investigation into similar cases is warranted to elucidate the neurotoxic effects of manganese.
- Understanding this relationship could inform diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.