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Leukodystrophy, Metachromatic

Abstract

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Synonyms of Leukodystrophy, Metachromatic

  • ARSA
  • Arylsulfatase A Deficiency
  • Cerebroside Sulfatase Deficiency
  • Diffuse Cerebral Sclerosis
  • Greenfield Disease
  • Late-Onset Metachromatic Leukodystrophy
  • Metachromatic Form of Diffuse Cerebral
  • Metachromatic Leukoencephalopathy
  • MLD
  • Sulfatide Lipidosis
  • Sulfatidosis

Disorder Subdivisions

  • Adult Metachromatic Leukodystrophy
  • Juvenile Metachromatic Leukodystrophy
  • Late Infantile Metachromatic Leukodystrophy

General Discussion

Metachromatic leukodystrophy, the most common form of leukodystrophy, is a rare inherited neurometabolic disorder affecting the white matter of the brain (leukoencephalopathy). It is characterized by the accumulation of a fatty substance known as sulfatide (a sphingolipid) in the brain and other areas of the body (i.e., liver, gall bladder, kidneys, and/or spleen). The fatty protective covering on the nerve fibers (myelin) is lost from areas of the central nervous system (CNS) due to the buildup of sulfatide. Symptoms of metachromatic leukodystrophy may include convulsions, seizures, personality changes, spasticity, progressive dementia, motor disturbances progressing to paralysis, and/or visual impairment leading to blindness.

Metachromatic leukodystrophy is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. There are three forms of the disease that have similar symptoms. However, they are distinguished by the age of onset: infantile, juvenile, and adult forms of metachromatic leukodystrophy.

Organizations related to Leukodystrophy, Metachromatic

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