Leukodystrophy is not a single condition. The term refers to a group of rare mainly inherited neurological disorders known as the leukodystrophies that result from the abnormal production, processing, or development of myelin and other components of the central nervous system (CNS) white matter, such as cells called oligodendrocytes and astrocytes. . All leukodystrophies are the result of genetic defects (mutations). Some forms are present at birth, while others may not cause symptoms until a child becomes a toddler. A few mainly affects adults. More than 50 different leukodystrophies have been identified, including:

• Alexander disease
• autosomal dominant leukodystrophy with autonomic diseases (ADLD),
• Canavan disease, cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX),
• metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD),
• Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease, ed
• Refsum disease. PProgressive here are many others, and some have not yet been identified.

Symptoms vary according to the specific type and can be difficult to recognize in the early stages of the condition. Each type of leukodystrophy affects myelin differently and in different parts of the CNS, leading to a range of symptoms. The most common symptom is a gradual functional decline in a baby or child who looked fine before. Progressive lost can appear in:

• muscle tension
• balance and mobility
• walk (gait)
• speech
• ability to eat
• vision
• to hear
• behaviour