About Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome

What is Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome?

Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome (DJS) is a rare, inherited disorder that affects the peripheral nervous system. It is characterized by progressive nerve damage that leads to muscle weakness and sensory loss in the arms and legs. It is caused by mutations in the PMP22 gene, which is responsible for producing a protein that helps form and maintain the myelin sheath that surrounds and protects nerve cells. Symptoms of DJS usually begin in early childhood and can include muscle weakness, sensory loss, and impaired coordination.

What are the symptoms of Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome?

The symptoms of Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome vary from person to person, but generally include:

-Delayed motor development

-Muscle Weakness and wasting

-Sensory impairment

-Loss of reflexes

-Loss of sensation in the lower limbs

-Difficulty walking

-Difficulty with fine motor skills

-Difficulty with speech

-Difficulty with swallowing

-Seizures

-Scoliosis

-Cognitive impairment

-Hearing loss

-Vision loss

What are the causes of Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome?

Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the PMP22 gene. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning that both copies of the gene must be mutated for a person to be affected by the disorder.

What are the treatments for Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome?

The treatments for Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome vary depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. Generally, treatments focus on managing the symptoms and improving the quality of life. These may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, orthopedic surgery, and medications to reduce muscle spasms. Other treatments may include braces, splints, and assistive devices to help with mobility. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to correct spinal deformities.

What are the risk factors for Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome?

1. Genetic mutation: Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome is caused by a genetic mutation in the PMP22 gene.

2. Family history: Having a family history of Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome increases the risk of developing the condition.

3. Age: Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome is more common in children under the age of 10.

4. Gender: Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome is more common in males than females.

Is there a cure/medications for Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome?

There is no cure for Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome, but there are medications and therapies that can help manage the symptoms. These include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medications to reduce muscle spasms, and medications to reduce pain.