Adrenomyeloneuropathy presenting with adrenal insufficiency

Ann Rehabil Med. 2013 Aug;37(4):563-6. doi: 10.5535/arm.2013.37.4.563. Epub 2013 Aug 26.

Abstract

Adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN), one of the variants of X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), is inherited peroxisomal disorder associated with the accumulation of very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA). AMN is characterized primarily by involvements of long ascending and descending tracts of the spinal cord and peripheral neuropathy, which leads to spastic paraparesis and urinary and erectile dysfunction. We experienced the AMN case of a 33-year-old man presenting bilateral progressive spastic paraparesis, impotence and urge incontinence with primary adrenal failures, as confirmed by increased serum of VLCFA concentrations. Considering that somatosensory evoked potentials in posterior tibial nerve was the only abnormal finding in electrophysiologic findings when compared with the severe spastic gait pattern shown, it is necessary to follow up with electrophysiologic studies.

Keywords: Adrenal insufficiency; Adrenoleukodystrophy; Spastic paraparesis.