Pantothenate Kinase-Associated Neurodegeneration (PKAN) is a rare, inherited neurological disorder caused by mutations in the PANK2 gene. It is characterized by progressive dystonia, spasticity, and other neurological symptoms. It is also known as Hallervorden-Spatz Syndrome.

The symptoms of Pantothenate Kinase-Associated NeuroDegeneration (PKAN) vary from person to person, but typically include:

-Developmental delay

-Muscle weakness

-Loss of coordination

-Abnormal eye movements

-Seizures

-Speech difficulties

-Difficulty swallowing

-Behavioral problems

-Depression

-Anxiety

-Sleep disturbances

-Difficulty walking

-Difficulty with fine motor skills

-Difficulty with balance

-Abnormal gait

-Abnormal posture

-Abnormal reflexes

-Abnormal muscle tone

-Abnormal muscle contractions

-Abnormal muscle movements

-Abnormal muscle strength

-Abnormal muscle coordination

Pantothenate Kinase-Associated Neurodegeneration (PKAN) is a rare, inherited neurological disorder caused by mutations in the PANK2 gene. This gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called pantothenate kinase 2, which is involved in the production of coenzyme A (CoA). CoA is essential for the normal functioning of cells, and mutations in the PANK2 gene lead to a deficiency of this enzyme, resulting in a buildup of iron in the brain and other tissues. This buildup of iron causes the neurological symptoms associated with PKAN.

1. Dietary supplementation with pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and other B vitamins.

2. Physical therapy to help maintain muscle strength and coordination.

3. Speech therapy to help with communication and swallowing difficulties.

4. Occupational therapy to help with daily activities.

5. Medications to help control seizures, reduce spasticity, and improve sleep.

6. Surgery to help improve mobility and reduce spasticity.

7. Gene therapy to replace the defective gene.

8. Stem cell therapy to replace damaged cells.

1. Genetic mutations in the PANK2 gene: Mutations in the PANK2 gene are the most common cause of Pantothenate Kinase-Associated Neurodegeneration (PKAN).

2. Age: PKAN typically begins in childhood or early adulthood.

3. Gender: PKAN is more common in males than females.

4. Family history: PKAN can be inherited from a parent who carries the mutated PANK2 gene.

5. Ethnicity: PKAN is more common in people of European descent.

At this time, there is no cure for Pantothenate Kinase-Associated Neurodegeneration (PKAN). However, there are medications that can help manage the symptoms of the condition. These medications include anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, and dopamine agonists. Additionally, physical and occupational therapy can help improve motor skills and quality of life.