Alternative Names
Pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration
Definition of Hallervorden-Spatz disease
Hallervorden-Spatz disease is a movement disorder that is passed down through families (inherited).
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Hallervorden-Spatz disease usually begins in childhood.
Signs and tests
The doctor will perform a physical exam and ask questions about the patient’s medical history. It is important to get a complete medical and family history, since the condition can run in families.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to control the symptoms. There is no specific treatment for Hallervorden-Spatz disease.
Expectations (prognosis)
Hallervorden-Spatz gets worse and damages the nerves over time. It leads to a lack of movement and often death by early adulthood.
Review
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 9/28/2010
