TUBEROUS SCLEROSIS
It is also known as epiloia, transmitted by autosomal dominant gene with great variability of expression. Nearly half of the cases are due to new mutation.
CAUSES
Tuberous sclerosis is a genetic disorder caused by gene changes — sometimes called mutations — in either the TSC1 or the TSC2 gene. These genes are thought to prevent cells from growing too fast or in an out-of-control way. Changes in either of these genes can cause cells to grow and divide more than needed. This leads to multiple growths throughout the body. These growths are considered noncancerous tumors.
RISK FACTORS
Tuberous sclerosis can be the result of either:
CLINICAL FEATURES:
Clinical features include
Skin lesions:
The characteristic skin lesions include:
(a) Adenoma sebaceum or angiofibroma: Angiofibromas usually appear between the age of 3 and 10 years, usually become more extensive at puberty and remain unchanged as later life. It presents as firm, discrete, yellowish or telangiectatic papules 1 10 mm in diameter on naso-labial furrows, cheeks, chin and occasionally on the cars.
(b) Periungual fibromata or Koenen's tumour: Periungual fibromata usually appear at or after puberty as smooth, firm and fleshy lesions under the They are usually multiple and 5-10 mm in length.
(c) Shagreen patch: Shagreen patch is an irregularly thickened, slightly raised, soft plaque usually present at lumbosacral region.
(d) Ovoid or linear leaf-shape white macules: The leaf-shape white macules vary from 1 to 3 cm in length and are usually present on the trunk or limbs, This is an important physical marker as it may be present at birth or in carly infancy much before any cutaneous lesions of the disease develop.
Mental retardation and epilepsy.
Mental retardation is seen in 60-70% of cases which is usually progressive. Epilepsy ultimately develops in most of mentally retarded patients. Eye involvement as retinal phacomata are seen in a few patients. Calcified nodules in the brain, especially in the region of basal ganglion is usually seen in the X-ray of the skull.
COMPLICATIONS
Depending on where the noncancerous tumors grow and their size, they can cause severe or life-threatening complications. Here are some examples:
HOMOEOPATHIC TREATMENT
Homoeopathy today is a rapidly growing system and is being practiced all over the world. It strength lies in its evident effectiveness as it takes a holistic approach towards the sick individual through promotion of inner balance at mental, emotional, spiritual and physical levels. When tuberous sclerosis is concerned there are many effective medicines available in Homoeopathy, but the selection depends upon the individuality of the patient, considering mental and physical symptoms.
CICUTA VIROSA -Cicuta virosa is one of the excellent remedies for tuberous sclerosis. Cicuta is best for violent convulsions. There is sudden rigidity followed by jerks and violent distortions, oppression of breathing, lock jaw, face dark red, frothing at the mouth with opisthotonos and great prostration after the attack. Fearful distortion of eyes. The epileptic fits come with swelling of stomach. Fingers clenched. The head, neck and spine bend backwards like an arch. There is moaning and howling. The patient remembers nothing after the attack. The fit is worse by slightest touch or jar. Suppressed eruption causes brain disease. Elevated eruptions, as large as peas.
BUFO RANA - Bufo rana is best for tuberous sclerosis in feeble minded children or prematurely seniles. Seizures occur at night during sleep, more or less connected with the sexual sphere. Mouth wide open before an attack and dropping of the jaw after the attack. Urine passes involuntarily after the attack. It is best for epilepsy of females who have attacks of seizures during menses.Patches of skin lose sensation. Pustules, suppuration from every slight injury. Pemphigus. Bullæ which open and leave a raw surface, exuding and ichorous fluid. Blisters on palms and soles. Itching and burning.
NUX VOMICA -Nux vomica is best for tuberous sclerosis which is worse from anger, touch, emotion, moving, indigestion. There is convulsions with titanic rigidity, red face, opisthotonos, and closed eyes. Involuntary urination and defecation in fit. Deep sleep follows the attack. Worse in open air.