How Do You Spell HEREDITARY SPASTIC PARAPLEGIA?

1. Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle weakness and stiffness (spasticity) in the lower limbs. It belongs to a group of neurological disorders known as hereditary spastic paraplegias, which are inherited in an autosomal dominant or recessive manner.

   The main symptoms of HSP typically emerge during childhood or early adulthood and progressively worsen over time. Individuals with HSP experience difficulty walking due to muscle weakness and increased muscle tone (spasticity) in the legs. This leads to a stiff and awkward gait, often described as "scissoring" or "spastic diplegia." In severe cases, the disorder may also affect the arms, leading to limited hand dexterity.

   HSP is primarily caused by mutations in certain genes that are involved in the normal function of nerve cells that transmit messages from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles (called the corticospinal tracts). These mutations disrupt the communication between nerve cells, leading to the characteristic symptoms of the condition.

   Treatment for HSP is mainly focused on managing the symptoms and improving quality of life. This may include physical and occupational therapy, assistive devices (such as braces or canes), and medications to alleviate muscle stiffness and pain. While there is currently no cure for HSP, ongoing research aims to identify additional genes involved in its development and find potential targets for therapeutic interventions.

Common Misspellings for HEREDITARY SPASTIC PARAPLEGIA