Leukodystrophy
Gianna Rostan
Types
Canavon's Disease
This disease enlarges your brain causing your head to also expand. This disease is a gradual change to mental ability. Life expectancy is limited.
Krabbe Disease
This disease affects the myelin sheath of the nervous system. Babies are affected the most by this disease and symptoms show the earliest in as young as 6 months old.
MLD - Metachromatic Lewkodystrophy
This disease is a degenerative, neurometabolic disorder. It effects your nerves.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms very depending upon which part of the brain is affected. Leukodystrophy is progressive and symptoms usually get worse over time. The typical symptoms:
- muscle tone
- body movements
- walking style
- speech
- ability to chew and swallow food
- eye sight
- hearing
- mental ability
- behavior
Features
Physical Features: muscle tone, walking style, and body movements. Emotional Features: emotional instability, hyperactivity, disruptive behavior at school/work.
There is Always Hope
Many treatments are currently available, but unfortunately there is no cure yet. The treatments include: medications, physical, occupational, and speech therapies; educational, recreational, and nutritional programs. Bone marrow transplants are also another option if needed.