[Magnetic resonance tomography confirms the diagnosis of Hallervorden-Spatz disease]

Abstract

We present the second description of an early diagnosed state of Hallervorden-Spatz disease (HSD) verified clinically and by means of magnet resonance imaging. Since the magnet resonance shows HSD specific transformations brain biopsy can be relinquished. In our case the early confirmation of a neurodegenerative disease (versus the presumption of a severe adjustment disorder as the case was presented) brought much relief in respect of the feelings of guilt to the family, although the long term prognosis is poor. The distinction between neurodegenerative diseases, demyelinisating diseases and HSD was possible considering the clinical signs and using the magnet resonance, which showed various pigments within the globus pallidum.