What is: LEUKODYSTROPHY

The leukodystrophies are a group of rare genetic disorders that affect the central nervous system by disrupting the growth or maintenance of the myelin sheath that insulates nerve cells. These disorders are progressive, meaning that they tend to get worse throughout the life of the patient.The most common symptom of a leukodystrophy disease is a gradual decline in an infant or child who previously appeared well. Progressive loss may appear in body tone, movements, gait, speech, ability to eat, vision, hearing, and behavior. There is often a slowdown in mental and physical development. Symptoms vary according to the specific type of leukodystrophy.

http://www.ulf.org/

http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/leukodystrophy/leukodystrophy.htm

http://my.clevelandclinic.org/disorders/leukodystrophy/hic_leukodystrophy.aspx