Neuro-Oncology
Anti-LGI1 encephalitis
Oct. 03, 2024
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ISSN: 2831-9125
Toll Free (U.S. + Canada): 800-452-2400
US Number: +1-619-640-4660
Support: service@medlink.com
Editor: editor@medlink.com
ISSN: 2831-9125
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CDKL5 deficiency disorder is a neurodevelopmental and epileptic encephalopathy primarily affecting females. Initially described as a Rett-like syndrome due to overlapping features, such as impaired motor skills, intellectual disability, and hand stereotypies, CDKL5 deficiency disorder has been recognized as a distinct entity with unique genetic and clinical profiles. Characterized by early-onset, refractory epilepsy frequently starting before 3 months and significant cognitive and motor impairments, CDKL5 deficiency disorder is caused by pathogenic variants in the CDKL5 gene. These pathogenic alterations disrupt crucial neuronal functions, including neuronal signaling, synaptic function, and brain development. Managing CDKL5 deficiency disorder is particularly difficult due to the intractable nature of the seizures, severe developmental delay, and associated comorbidities, including cortical visual impairment, sleep, feeding and gastrointestinal disturbances, and breathing abnormalities. Given the localization of the CDKL5 gene on the X chromosome, males typically exhibit a more severe phenotype compared to females. Current treatments, including antiseizure medications, ketogenic diet, and vagal nerve stimulation, offer only partial relief from seizures. However, recent research has shown promise with neuroactive steroids and CDKL5 kinase inhibitors, providing a glimmer of hope for more effective therapies. As our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying CDKL5 deficiency disorder improves, there is optimism for developing gene therapies that could significantly enhance the quality of life for affected children.
• CDKL5 deficiency disorder is primarily characterized by early-onset, drug-resistant epilepsy, which typically presents in the first months of life and is associated with severe neurodevelopmental disability in most cases. | |
• Pathogenic variants in the CDKL5 gene lead to either a complete loss or partial loss of CDKL5 kinase activity. The phenotype may vary according to the type of pathogenic variant. | |
• Effective seizure control is crucial for improving developmental outcomes and quality of life. Early and optimal management of seizures can lead to better cognitive and motor function. | |
• CDKL5 deficiency disorder affects not only the brain but also other systems, including the cardiac and gastrointestinal systems. | |
• There is ongoing research into potential therapeutic interventions. Treatment with neuroactive steroids like ganaxolone have been associated with a significant reduction in seizure frequency, although seizure freedom cannot be reached. Kinase inhibitors have shown promise in preclinical models. Such treatments aim to mitigate the neurologic deficits associated with CDKL5 deficiency disorder and improve the quality of life for patients. |
During the characterization of Rett syndrome, it was noted that a subgroup of girls initially diagnosed with Rett syndrome presented with early-onset epilepsy, usually infantile spasms. These girls went on to have some characteristics reminiscent of girls with MECP2 pathogenic variants, including severe developmental delays, intellectual disability, and stereotypic hand movements, and were thus classified as an early-onset seizure variant of Rett syndrome, or Rett-like disorder (13). In 2004, two independent research groups identified mutations in the CDKL5 gene in patients with clinical pictures resembling early-onset Rett syndrome variants (34; 36). Subsequent studies confirmed that CDKL5 mutations resulted in a unique phenotype distinct from Rett syndrome characterized by earlier and more severe seizures as well as absence of the regression phase typical of Rett syndrome, leading to its recognition as a separate clinical entity (10). However, although CDKL5 deficiency disorder is clearly a distinct disorder, the concept of it as a “Rett-like disorder” has somehow persisted in the literature.
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MedLink®, LLC
3525 Del Mar Heights Rd, Ste 304
San Diego, CA 92130-2122
Toll Free (U.S. + Canada): 800-452-2400
US Number: +1-619-640-4660
Support: service@medlink.com
Editor: editor@medlink.com
ISSN: 2831-9125