Hallervorden-Spatz disease is an inherited, degenerative disease that usually begins in childhood and involves progressive muscle rigidity, weakness, and movement disorder.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Most cases of Hallervorde-Spatz are due to a mutation in the gene responsible for making a protein called pantothenate kinase 2. Patients with a mutated form of this gene accumulate iron in parts of the brain, especially the basal ganglia.
Review Date: 8/12/2004
Reviewed By: Joseph V. Campellone, M.D., Division of Neurology, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
