Synthetic cannabinoids revealing adrenoleukodystrophy

J Clin Neurosci. 2016 Feb:24:155-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jocn.2015.07.020. Epub 2015 Oct 23.

Abstract

We report a 41-year-old man who presented with a first generalized tonic-clonic seizure after recent consumption of a synthetic cannabinoid. MRI showed extensive bilateral, mainly frontal, white matter lesions. Blood analysis for very long chain fatty acids was compatible with adrenoleukodystrophy, and a missense mutation in the ABCD1 gene confirmed the diagnosis. We hypothesize that cannabinoid use might have contributed to metabolic decompensation with subacute worsening of the underlying condition.

Keywords: Adrenoleukodystrophy; Cannabinoids; Leukodystrophies; MRI; Seizures.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily D, Member 1
  • ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters / genetics
  • Adrenoleukodystrophy / diagnosis*
  • Adrenoleukodystrophy / genetics
  • Adult
  • Cannabinoids / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Mutation, Missense
  • Seizures / etiology

Substances

  • ABCD1 protein, human
  • ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily D, Member 1
  • ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters
  • Cannabinoids