What is vanishing white matter syndrome?

What is vanishing white matter syndrome?

Vanishing white matter (VWM) disease is an inherited condition caused by a faulty gene. Children with VWM disease have a defective protein that prevents the body from making enough myelin, a white, fatty substance that insulates nerve fibers, protecting them from damage.

Is leukodystrophy always fatal?

Leukodystrophies are progressive, so the neurological problems get worse over time. They’re usually fatal. Many children with leukodystrophy die before their teenage years. Some people survive into adulthood.

Can white matter disease go away?

Treatments: While there is no known cure for white matter disease, treatments can help to manage the symptoms. Controlling the risk factors associated with heart disease can help decrease the progression of the disease.

Can leukodystrophy affect the brain?

Leukodystrophies are characterized by this abnormal growth of white matter in the brain. Specifically, these diseases damage the brain’s myelin sheath, which acts as an insulator around nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord.

Can white matter on brain go away?

White matter disease doesn’t have a cure, but there are treatments that can help manage your symptoms. The primary treatment is physical therapy. Physical therapy can help with any balance and walking difficulties you may develop.

How common is vanishing white matter disease?

The prevalence of leukoencephalopathy with vanishing white matter is unknown. Although it is a rare disorder, it is believed to be one of the most common inherited diseases that affect the white matter.

What does leukodystrophy do to the brain?

How common is white matter disease?

This is your brain on aging By age 60, this degeneration, termed white matter disease, is present in more than half of the population. Originally, white matter disease was considered a normal, age-related change.