SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Silent Calcifications: A Case of Fahr's Syndrome With No Residual Neurological Deficits

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This case report describes Fahr’s syndrome, a rare neurological disorder marked by bilateral calcium deposition in the basal ganglia and other brain regions. It typically presents with extrapyramidal symptoms, cerebellar dysfunction, speech problems, dementia, and neuropsychiatric changes, and is often associated with underlying metabolic or endocrine disorders such as hypoparathyroidism.<br /><br />The patient was a 30-year-old man with a seizure disorder who presented to the emergency department after an epileptic event. He had been taking calcium carbonate (Tums) two tablets three times daily but missed two days of doses prior to presentation. His physical examination was unremarkable. He was treated with calcium repletion and antiepileptic therapy, and neurology followed his care. Throughout hospitalization, he remained asymptomatic and had no residual neurological deficits.<br /><br />The authors emphasize that Fahr’s syndrome is extremely rare, with a prevalence of about 1 in 1,000,000, and usually begins between ages 30 and 40. The syndrome is most commonly linked to hypoparathyroidism, though its exact pathophysiology remains unclear. Proposed mechanisms include calcium-phosphorus deposition, blood-brain barrier disruption, and altered neuronal calcium metabolism.<br /><br />This case is notable because the patient lacked the typical ongoing neurologic impairments seen in Fahr’s syndrome. The authors suggest that his regular intake of calcium carbonate may have helped maintain electrolyte balance and prevent symptomatic hypocalcemia. While there is no cure for Fahr’s syndrome, treatment focuses on correcting metabolic abnormalities and providing nutritional guidance to help prevent progression.

Asset Subtitle

Yusuf Buxamusa

Meta Tag

Author List Archa James, Graciela M. Luna, Jennifer Trube, MMrhaf Alsamman, Yusuf Buxamusa

Category Clinical Vignettes

Concept Fahr Syndrome

Concept Intracranial Calcification

Concept Hypoparathyroidism

Concept Basal Ganglia

Concept Extrapyramidal Symptoms

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization Lakeland Regional Health

Presenting Author Yusuf Buxamusa

Track Adult

Keywords

Fahr's syndrome

basal ganglia calcification

hypoparathyroidism

seizure disorder

hypocalcemia

calcium carbonate

neurological disorder

epileptic event

calcium repletion

neuropsychiatric changes

Fahr Syndrome

Intracranial Calcification

Hypoparathyroidism

Basal Ganglia

Extrapyramidal Symptoms