Severe TUBB4A-related hypomyelination with atrophy of the basal ganglia and cerebellum: Novel neuropathological findings

Abstract

Hypomyelination with atrophy of the basal ganglia and cerebellum (H-ABC) is a rare hypomyelinating leukodystrophy characterized by infantile or childhood onset of motor developmental delay, progressive rigidity and spasticity, with hypomyelination and progressive atrophy of the basal ganglia and cerebellum due to a genetic mutation of the TUBB4A gene. It has only been recognized since 2002 and the full spectrum of the disorder is still being delineated. Here, we review a case report of a severely affected girl with a thorough neuropathological evaluation demonstrating novel clinical and pathological findings. Clinically, our patient demonstrated visual dysfunction and hypodontia in addition to the typical phenotype. Morphologically, more severe and widespread changes in the white matter were observed, including to the optic tracts; in gray structures such as the caudate nucleus, thalamus, globus pallidus, and substantia nigra; as well as an area of focal cortical dysplasia. Overall this case offers further insight into the broad range of clinical and neuropathological findings that may be associated with H-ABC and related TUBB4A gene mutations.