Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia: Diagnostic and Management Challenges in Resources-limited setting – A Case Report and Literature Review
Keywords:
Hereditary spastic paraplegia, Low and middle income countries, Genetic diagnosis, Lower limb spasticityAbstract
Hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs) are a group of genetically heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorders characterized primarily by progressive lower-limb spasticity. Diagnosis is often challenging in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) due to limited access to advanced diagnostics and rehabilitation. We present a case of a 37-year-old male with progressive lower limb spasticity and gait abnormalities. Diagnostic efforts were hindered by the unavailability of genetic testing, financial constraints, and inaccurate family history due to low health literacy. Despite these challenges, a diagnosis of HSP was made based on clinical and radiological evaluation. This case highlights the diagnostic and management difficulties of HSPs in resource-limited settings and underscores the need for improved access to genetic testing and multidisciplinary care.
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