Ataxia-telangiectasia: MR and CT findings.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to describe the neuroradiologic features of 12 patients with ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T), a degenerative multisystemic autosomal recessive hereditary disorder with onset in childhood. Clinical features include cerebellar ataxia, oculocutaneous telangiectasias, and recurrent bronchopulmonary infections. Patients present varying states of immunodeficiency and a high incidence of neoplasms. Chromosomal instability with a rearrangement of chromosomes 7 and 14 is always present.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We describe the neuroradiological findings (10 MR and 2 CT) in 12 subjects: 11 with A-T and 1 heterozygote parent.

RESULTS

The images revealed a diffuse cerebellar atrophy, with marked involvement of the vermis and unusual decreased thickness of the superior cortex of the cerebellar hemispheres. Hypoplasia of the inferior vermis and a large cisterna magna were also frequent signs.

CONCLUSION

Magnetic resonance is the technique of choice in this type of disorder since it permits better visualization of the posterior fossa structures.