Fahr's Syndrome Secondary to Primary Hypoparathyroidism Presenting With Seizures and the Role of Steroid Therapy

Clin Med Insights Case Rep. 2023 May 28:16:11795476231178119. doi: 10.1177/11795476231178119. eCollection 2023.

Abstract

Background: Fahr's syndrome a rare neurological condition characterized by an abnormal basal ganglia calcification. The condition has both genetic and metabolic causes. Here, we describe a patient who had Fahr's syndrome and basal secondary to hypoparathyroidism, and her calcium level raised after the administration of steroid therapy.

Case report: We presented a case of a 23-year-old female with seizures. Associated symptoms included headache, vertigo, disturbed sleep, and reduced appetite. Her laboratory workup revealed hypocalcemia and low parathyroid hormone level, computed tomographic (CT) scan of the brain showed diffuse calcification in the brain parenchyma. The patient was diagnosed as a case of Fahr's syndrome secondary to hypoparathyroidism. The patient was started on calcium and calcium supplementations along with anti-seizure therapy. Her calcium level raised after the initiation of oral prednisolone and she remained asymptomatic.

Conclusion: Steroid could be considered as an adjunct therapy with calcium and vitamin D supplementation in patient whose Fahr's syndrome is secondary to primary hypoparathyroidism.

Keywords: Fahr’s syndrome; basal ganglia; hypocalcemia; hypoparathyroidism; seizures.

Publication types

  • Case Reports