Juvenile primary lateral sclerosis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Juvenile Primary Lateral Sclerosis
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Synonyms N/A
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Progressive muscle weakness, spasticity
Complications N/A
Onset Childhood
Duration Chronic
Types N/A
Causes Genetic mutations
Risks N/A
Diagnosis Clinical evaluation, genetic testing
Differential diagnosis N/A
Prevention N/A
Treatment Symptomatic management, physical therapy
Medication N/A
Prognosis Variable
Frequency N/A
Deaths N/A


Juvenile Primary Lateral Sclerosis (JPLS) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive muscle weakness and spasticity due to the degeneration of upper motor neurons. It is a form of primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) that presents in childhood, typically before the age of 20.

Etiology[edit | edit source]

JPLS is primarily caused by genetic mutations. The most common genetic mutation associated with JPLS occurs in the ALS2 gene, which encodes the protein alsin. Alsin is involved in the maintenance of motor neuron function, and mutations in this gene lead to the degeneration of upper motor neurons.

Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]

The hallmark symptoms of JPLS include:

  • Progressive muscle weakness
  • Spasticity, particularly in the legs
  • Difficulty with balance and coordination
  • Hyperreflexia (exaggerated reflexes)

Unlike amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), JPLS does not typically affect the lower motor neurons, and therefore, muscle atrophy and fasciculations are not prominent features.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of JPLS is based on clinical evaluation and the exclusion of other conditions. Genetic testing can confirm the diagnosis by identifying mutations in the ALS2 gene. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and spinal cord may show degeneration of the corticospinal tracts.

Management[edit | edit source]

There is currently no cure for JPLS. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This may include:

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The progression of JPLS is variable. Some individuals may experience a slow progression of symptoms, while others may have a more rapid decline. Life expectancy can be normal, but quality of life may be significantly affected by the degree of disability.

Also see[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Juvenile primary lateral sclerosis Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD