Conditions

ALD is one of a group of genetic disorders called the leukodystrophies that cause damage to the myelin sheath -- the fatty covering -- on nerve fibers in the brain. There are several forms of ALD. Onset of the classic childhood form, which is the most severe and affects only boys, may occur between...

These cases occur in people with no history of the disorder in their family. Rarely, an affected person inherits the mutation from one affected parent. The gene involved in this disease is referred to as GFAP, glial fibrillary acidic protein. Diagnosis: The infantile form begins before age 2, and...

The first sign of the disease is usually the lack of balance and coordination, presenting during the first two or three years of life. The hallmarks of AT are ataxia (lack of muscle control) and other movement disorders, and telangiectasias (tiny, red "spider" veins), which appear in the corners of...

These difficulties usually begin before the person is seven years old. However, these behaviors may be noticed earlier or may not be noticed until the child is older. Doctors do not know what causes ADHD. However, researchers who study the brain are coming closer to understanding what may cause ADHD...

ASD includes autism, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger's syndrome. Each of these disorders has specific diagnostic criteria as outlined by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR)...