Fahr’s Disease Presenting with Seizures and Behavioral Disturbance in a 14-Year-Old Adolescent
Abstract:
Fahr’s disease is a rare neurodegenerative disorder
characterized by abnormal brain calcifications, typically
presented in middle age. This case report describes an unusual
presentation in a 14-year-old boy, highlighting the
importance of considering Fahr’s disease in pediatric
patients. The patient had a 5-year history of seizures, cognitive
decline, and behavioral disturbances, along with obesity,
short stature, low intelligence, and a clumsy gait. Imaging
revealed extensive symmetrical calcifications in the basal
ganglia, dentate nucleus, and cerebral white matter,
confirming Fahr’s disease. The condition can present diverse
neurological and psychiatric symptoms, including seizures,
movement disorders, cognitive impairment, and mood
disturbances. Diagnosis requires excluding secondary causes
of brain calcification and is supported by characteristic
radiological findings and the absence of biochemical
abnormalities. This case underscores the need for early
recognition and comprehensive evaluation to optimize
management and improve the patient’s quality of life, even
in the absence of family history.