Leukodystrophy: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Leukodystrophy is a brain- related disorder. As part of this disorder, the white matter in the human brain comes under a degenerative influence. To categorize leukodystrophy as a series of disorders will not be inappropriate. In the course of this series, growth, development as well as responses of the brain's myelin sheath are affected.
Factors responsible for causing leukodystrophy
Leukodystrophy is of different types. Heredity is primarily responsible, although inheriting the disease recessively or dominantly is possible. Certain kinds of leukodystrophy may not be inherited but genetic mutation is largely responsible for bringing about this condition. In this connection, it is worth noting that while some of the cases of mutation are inherited, this is not true of all. Therapeutic means of treating cancer including radiation and chemotherapy count amongst the probable list of causes. To a large extent, these are responsible for aggravating leukodystrophy.
Damage to the myelin sheath harnesses leukodystrophy. As a result of this damage, immune responses set in inflammatory conditions. These in turn lead to the degradation and degeneration of myelin.
Signs which are commonly noticeable in leukodystrophy
Gradual decline in health and well being is one of the most common symptoms of this disease. The degenerative effects are noticeable in the physiological, psychological, neurological, behavioral and emotional aspects. Usually, the conditions show up in early childhood. As part of this degeneration, the physiological tone of a child stands to be affected. Mobility, gait, weight, speech and vision development is likely to degenerate. In extreme cases, cognizance power of a developing child may be affected as well. The ability to hear, feel, communicate and interact is unlikely to follow a normal course of development. In other words, the physiological and socio-psychological development of a growing child will not only slowdown but will probably refrain from following a normal sequential pattern. Symptomatic conditions vary from case to case in unleashing and developing. Moreover, the type of leukodystrophy influences the flow, flux, emergence and development of these.
Ways of dealing with leukodystrophy
Transplantation of bone marrow in addition to stem cell treatment has been tried in curing this brain centric degenerative disorder. But despite the best of attempts, desirable outcomes are yet to emerge. Researchers are still deliberating on the use of skin cells for the purpose of replacing malformed myelin sheets. Gene therapy in addition to that dealing with the replacement of the enzyme is also being researched, as effective modes.
It is important that one adopts a therapeutic mode that is practical. The preparation of mindset is also necessary for dealing with this disease. Practically speaking, the disease is not curable. But that doesn't mean that you cannot manage and deal with it. Symptomatic conditions can be controlled, and supportive regimen may be put to use for managing them/ As per the needs and requisitions of cases; physical therapy, psychological as well as familial counseling can be made use of. Occupational therapies may be banked on, so that patients can attain functional mobility. Fits and seizures commonly occur in leukodystrophy, and suitable medications are prescribed to arrest such conditions.
About the Author
Dr. James S. Pendergraft opened the Orlando Women's Center in March 1996 to provide a full range of health care for women. http://www.womenscenter.com/
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