Pantothenate kinase 2 deficiency: A neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation

Abstract

Pantothenate kinase 2 deficiency (previously known as Hallervorden-Spatz disease) is an unusual metabolic disorder characterized by progressive extrapyramidal dysfunction and dementia. A 27-year-old Caucasian presented with a major depression disorder and social phobia since adolescence. Patient had marked paranoia, auditory hallucinations, extrapyramidal dysfunction, poor memory, and gait abnormality. Laboratory tests including serum copper and ceruloplasmin were all normal. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination of the brain played an important role in the diagnosis in this patient.