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Necrotizing encephalomyelopathy, subacute, of Leigh, adult

Synonyms
LEIGH SYNDROME, ADULT

Summary

Excerpted from the GeneReview: Mitochondrial DNA-Associated Leigh Syndrome and NARP
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)-associated Leigh syndrome and NARP (neurogenic muscle weakness, ataxia, and retinitis pigmentosa) are part of a continuum of progressive neurodegenerative disorders caused by abnormalities of mitochondrial energy generation. Leigh syndrome (or subacute necrotizing encephalomyelopathy) is characterized by onset of symptoms typically between ages three and 12 months, often following a viral infection. Decompensation (often with elevated lactate levels in blood and/or CSF) during an intercurrent illness is typically associated with psychomotor retardation or regression. Neurologic features include hypotonia, spasticity, movement disorders (including chorea), cerebellar ataxia, and peripheral neuropathy. Extraneurologic manifestations may include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. About 50% of affected individuals die by age three years, most often as a result of respiratory or cardiac failure. NARP is characterized by proximal neurogenic muscle weakness with sensory neuropathy, ataxia, and pigmentary retinopathy. Onset of symptoms, particularly ataxia and learning difficulties, is often in early childhood. Individuals with NARP can be relatively stable for many years, but may suffer episodic deterioration, often in association with viral illnesses.
Full text of GeneReview (by section):
Summary
GeneReview Scope
Diagnosis
Clinical Characteristics
Genetically Related Disorders
Differential Diagnosis
Management
Genetic Counseling
Resources
Molecular Genetics
Chapter Notes
References
Authors:
David R Thorburn
Joyeeta Rahman
Shamima Rahman
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Clinical features

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Imported from Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO)

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