Childhood Neurodegenerative Disorders

Abstract

Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) are a group of disorders with the deterioration of attained skills often with no solutions, usually ending with death or crippling disabilities. This chapter contains a classification for childhood NDs as well as an algorithmic approach for easy management of these disorders. Genetic defects and pathophysiology of disorders like Canavan, Krabbe, subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), etc. are written in detail. Suggestions regarding management of some of these conditions are described as a lifecycle approach, from birth to death, to enable those who are taking care of such kids. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), gene therapy, combination therapy, and other experimental therapies have enlarged the scope of diagnosis and treatment options for these disorders. The author aims to brush up the existing and latest possibilities in NDs, including those at the experimental stage, for an easy understanding and for further research, especially as treatment options.