GABA Transaminase Deficiency With Survival Into Adulthood

J Child Neurol. 2019 Mar;34(4):216-220. doi: 10.1177/0883073818823359. Epub 2019 Jan 15.

Abstract

γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA)-transaminase deficiency is an ultra-rare disorder of GABA metabolism that was described for decades as an early-onset epileptic encephalopathy plus movement disorder and hypersomnolence with mortality in early childhood. We report 2 affected siblings in adolescence and adulthood, both with profound developmental impairment, intractable epilepsy, movement disorder, and behavioral fluctuations. This considerably expands the phenotype and longevity of this inherited neurotransmitter disease.

Keywords: ABAT gene; GABA metabolism; GABA-T deficiency; GABA-transaminase deficiency; India.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • 4-Aminobutyrate Transaminase / deficiency*
  • 4-Aminobutyrate Transaminase / genetics
  • Adolescent
  • Amino Acid Metabolism, Inborn Errors* / diagnosis
  • Amino Acid Metabolism, Inborn Errors* / genetics
  • Amino Acid Metabolism, Inborn Errors* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Phenotype
  • Siblings
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • 4-Aminobutyrate Transaminase

Supplementary concepts

  • Gamma aminobutyric acid transaminase deficiency