Atypical pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration with PANK2 mutations : clinical description and a review of the literature.

ABSTRACT

Panthothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) is arare neurodegeneration caused by mutations in the pantothenate kinase (PANK2) gene, which is located on chromosome 20p13. These mutations result in iron accumulation in the brain basal ganglia leading to parkinsonism, dysarthria, spasticity, cognitive impairment, and retinopathy. Herein, we report acase of adult-onset PKAN who presented with young-onset action tremor, bradykinesia, dysarthria, and bilateral interossei atrophy.  Neuroimaging demonstrated "eye-of-the-tiger signs". Through analyzing PANK2 gene, PANK2 NM_153638c.1133A>G (p.Asp378 Gly) and PANK2 NM_153638c.1502 T > A (p.lle501Asn), were detected. In addition, we reviewed the clinical and genetic features and therapeutic strategies for patients with PKAN.