Brain imaging findings in CLCN2-related leukoencephalopathy

Pediatr Radiol. 2023 May;53(5):1027-1032. doi: 10.1007/s00247-022-05577-3. Epub 2022 Dec 24.

Abstract

CLCN2-related leukoencephalopathy is a rare autosomal-recessive disease caused by a loss-of-function mutation in the ClC-2 chloride channel, which is fundamental in ion and water brain homeostasis. With only 31 cases published in the literature, its precise pathophysiology is uncertain, clinical manifestations are nonspecific and little is known in terms of prognosis. Neuroimaging plays a fundamental role in the identification of CLCN2-related leukoencephalopathy, which has a typical magnetic resonance imaging pattern that, when recognized, should promote proper genetic study for diagnostic confirmation. We report a paediatric clinical case of CLCN2-related leukoencephalopathy with genetically verified c.1709G > A p(Trp570*) mutation, highlighting typical neuroimaging findings and the importance of imaging in the diagnostic approach.

Keywords: Brain; Chloride channel 2; Genetics; Leukoencephalopathy; Magnetic resonance imaging; Metabolic disease; Neonates; Transfontanellar ultrasound.

MeSH terms

  • Brain / diagnostic imaging
  • Brain / metabolism
  • CLC-2 Chloride Channels
  • Child
  • Chloride Channels* / genetics
  • Chloride Channels* / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Leukoencephalopathies* / diagnostic imaging
  • Leukoencephalopathies* / genetics
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Mutation
  • Neuroimaging

Substances

  • Chloride Channels
  • CLC-2 Chloride Channels