Epilepsy and cerebellar ataxia associated with anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies. Issue 2 (16th January 2007)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vulliemoz, S; Vanini, G; Truffert, A; Chizzolini, C; Seeck, M
• Is Part Of: Journal of neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry. Volume 78:Issue 2(2007)
• Page Start: 187
• Page End: 189
• Publication Date: 2007-01-16
• Subjects: CAPA, cerebellar ataxia with polyendocrine autoimmunity -- GABA, γhydroxybutyric acid -- GAD, glutamic acid decarboxylase -- GAD-Ab, autoantibodies against GAD -- IDDM, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus -- MRI, magnetic resonance imaging -- PET, positron emission tomography -- SPS, stiff-person syndrome; Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.2006.089268
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3050

Abstract

Abstract : Anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antibodies are described in stiff-person syndrome and also in other neurological syndromes, including cerebellar ataxia and epilepsy. This paper reports the case of a patient who had chronic focal epilepsy, upbeat nystagmus and cerebellar ataxia, associated with a polyautoimmune response including anti-GAD antibodies. Both gait and nystagmus improved markedly after immunosuppressive treatment with corticosteroids and azathioprine. After the introduction of benzodiazepines, previously refractory seizures were completely controlled. Anti-GAD antibodies should be actively sought out in pharmacoresistant epilepsy, particularly if other neurological abnormalities are present. Combined treatment with immunosuppressants and γhydroxybutyric acidergic agents may be highly effective.