More symptom information
Learn more about specific symptoms of this leukodystrophy in these pages.
Also known as: Labrune Disease
Leukoencephalopathy with calcification and cysts (LCC) is a rare and progressive genetic disorder affecting the brain, caused by mutations in the gene SNORD118. It is characterised by the formation of calcifications and fluid-filled cysts within the brain’s white matter. LCC can lead to a wide range of neurological symptoms, including cognitive decline, movement difficulties, seizures and vision problems. Treatment primarily focuses on managing symptoms and providing supportive care to improve the affected individual’s quality of life.
A new diagnosis can be overwhelming as it brings unique challenges and adjustments, but it is important to remember that you are not alone.
In LCC there is an abnormality affecting the small blood vessels in the brain (microangiopathy) caused by mutations in the gene SNORD118. These mutations alter the function of a structure present in the cells of the body called the ribosome which is involved in the assembly of proteins. It is not yet understood how this genetic change causes the disease.
The brain abnormalities of LCC are very similar to those of Coats Plus (CP). However LCC does not cause the eye, bone, gut or blood problems that occur in CP. Before the genetic causes of CP and LCC were discovered it was thought that both of these conditions might be the same condition which was called CRMCC.
Autosomal recessive: In autosomal recessive conditions, two copies of the genetic mutation are needed to cause the condition. We all have two copies of every gene, one from our mother and one from our father. The parents of someone with an autosomal recessive condition both carry one copy of the gene with a genetic mutation. Therefore, someone with an autosomal recessive condition has two copies of the genetic mutation, one copy from each parent. Each child of parents that both carry the genetic mutation will have a 25% chance of having the condition, a 50% chance of carrying the genetic mutation (like the parent), and a 25% chance of not having the condition.
Genetic counselling is essential for affected families due to the inheritance pattern of the condition. This is available at hospitals and Regional Genetic Centres. Please contact your doctor if you have any questions.
Learn more about genetic testing and counselling here.
The symptoms of LCC can begin at any age, sometimes appearing in the first few months of life but sometimes not developing until late adulthood.
Commonly the first symptoms are epileptic seizures, weakness, abnormal movements or mobility difficulties or cognitive decline. Some people with LCC first develop symptoms because of the development of cysts within the brain which causes raised pressure inside the head and/or the development of hydrocephalus. This often requires a neurosurgical operation to drain the cyst or relieve the pressure.
In most people, particularly when the condition presents in childhood, there is progressive deterioration in cognitive function and mobility. Life expectancy is variable with some affected people passing under the age of 20 but others not developing symptoms until middle or old age.
Learn more about specific symptoms of this leukodystrophy in these pages.
Although there is currently no specific treatment for this leukodystrophy, there is condition management information that may be useful for you in managing your or your loved one’s leukodystrophy.
There may be a current clinical trial, natural history study or patient registry for your condition. Check our current research page and ask your specialist doctor for more information.
We understand that research is a significant priority and source of hope for the leukodystrophy community. There is more research in leukodystrophy now than ever before. Alex TLC actively promotes and supports research in a number of ways.
Every month we update our database of research summaries with the most recent research. This includes summaries of leukodystrophy articles, clinical trials and pharmaceutical press releases. Our summaries allow our community to read about relevant recent research developments in a format that is easily understood.
Learn about the ways in which we can help in the how we support you section. When you or a family member been diagnosed with a leukodystrophy it may be difficult to know where to go for more advice – this information could help.
Our services and equipment section is here to help leukodystrophy patients and their families manage their condition. All information is based on our knowledge of UK services, however, our team are happy to receive support requests from other countries – email us.
You may be introduced to many different medical professionals which you may find confusing. View our guide to the health and care professionals you may encounter, with short descriptions about what they do.
We take great care in only selecting credible, useful links and resources, however we cannot be held responsible for the content of external websites or other sources.