Rare Neurological Conditions

When youdiscuss neurological disorders, youprobably associate them with disorders or conditions that affect the brain, the spine, and the nerves of the peripheral and central nervous system. The truth is that there are several types ofneurological disorders; they may appear as common disorders until they are finally identified as rare neurological conditions. They can createphysical difficulties and decreased ability to perform certain tasks or activities. Some of the most common neurological conditionsmay include developmental delays and speech problems. In addition, spastic movements and seizures are also some of the most common neurological symptoms. Below are some of the most common types of rare neurological conditions.

Carnosinemiaas a Neurological Condition

This is a kind of rare metabolic disorder and is otherwise known as carnosinase deficiency, serum carnosinase and hyper beta carnosinemia. This kind of condition causes certain delays in normal processes of the neurological system and also may cause developmental malfunctioning. Certainly, there are a few signs that may warn a person if they are suffering from this rare neurological condition. Basically, the National Association for Rare Disorders provides a list of the most common signs and symptoms of carnosinemia; a few of those signs are the following:

  • Involuntary movements of the legs, arms and head
  • Mental retardation
  • Seizures

These signs and symptoms usually appear during infancy period and may continue to develop as the child grows.

Syringomyelia: Affecting the Spinal Cord

Syringomyelia is perhaps one of the most severe and rare neurological conditions. This disorder causes a cyst to form within the spinal cord, and as the cyst continues to grow or expand, it will eventually destroy the center parts of the spinal cord. This kind of disorder is usually caused by certain spinal cord incidents or trauma, birth defects, and developmental problems with the brain. Signs and symptoms of syringomyelia include the following:

  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Bladder and bowel control problems
  • General body weakness
  • Constant Headaches
  • Difficulty handling changes in temperature
  • Lack of sexual desire

Meige's Syndrome

Meige’s syndrome is another rare neurological condition, which happens to be considered a form of dystonia. Dystonia is a form of muscle contractions caused by different types of movement disorders. This of condition can result considerably annoying since it manifests itself in a repetitive manner, such as the frequent and rapid thrusting of the chin. According to medical researchers, this kind of condition can also cause a forceful opening of the human jaw, protrusion of the tongue, and muscle spasms.  This kind of disorder is also known as idiopathic orofacial dyskinesia or Brueghel syndrome.This rare neurological condition is likely to be misdiagnosed since the majority of doctors are not familiar with its symptoms. This condition is not identified through blood testing, MRIs or even CT scans; in most cases, a neurologist that has specialized in movement disorders will be the one to diagnose a patient correctly. Once the condition has been identified, the patient can opt to receive palliative treatment. Nonetheless, there is no known cure for Meige’s syndrome.