[Clinical picture and pathogenesis of the Refsum syndrome]

Zh Nevropatol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 1977;77(6):832-7.
[Article in Russian]

Abstract

The author reports of 2 cases (sisters of 13 and 15 years old) with the Refsum syndrome. The disease had its onset at the age of 12 and 5 years with a progressive development and remissions. The clinical picture was characterized by a recurrent syndrome of polyradiculoneurites with a slight protein cellular dissociation in the CSF, an expressed sensitive ataxia with elements of cerebellar disorders, a drop in the acuity of sight, audition, intellectual level and a deformation of the talipes of the Friedreich type. In a single examination of fatty acids in the blood serum by the method of gas chromotography there were no data pointing to the existence of 3, 7, 11, 15-tetra metylhexadecone acids. On the basis of an immunological study the author discusses the role of autoimmune reactions in the pathogenesis of the diseases. A differential diagnosis was conducted between acanthocytosis and porphyria with recommendations in regard to treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Acanthosis Nigricans / diagnosis
  • Adolescent
  • Autoantibodies
  • Brain / immunology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Porphyrias / diagnosis
  • Refsum Disease / diagnosis*
  • Refsum Disease / immunology
  • Refsum Disease / therapy

Substances

  • Autoantibodies