What Is Basal Ganglia Calcification?

• A condition where calcium deposits build up in the basal ganglia region of the brain
• Can be idiopathic (unknown cause) or secondary to other conditions
• Also known as Fahr’s Syndrome or Fahr’s Disease in some cases
• May be asymptomatic or cause neurological and psychiatric symptoms
• Often detected incidentally on brain imaging

What Are the Common Symptoms?

• Movement disorders (tremors, muscle stiffness, dystonia, chorea)
• Gait problems or imbalance
• Speech difficulties
• Seizures
• Headache
• Cognitive decline or memory loss
• Psychiatric symptoms (depression, psychosis, anxiety)
• May have no symptoms in early stages

What Causes It?

• Genetic mutations (e.g., SLC20A2, PDGFB, PDGFRB)
• Metabolic disorders (calcium or phosphorus imbalance)
• Parathyroid dysfunction (hypoparathyroidism, pseudohypoparathyroidism)
• Infections (e.g., TORCH infections)
• Toxins or carbon monoxide poisoning
• Mitochondrial or neurodegenerative disorders

How Is It Diagnosed?

• CT scan (most effective at showing calcification)
• MRI (to assess surrounding brain tissue)
• Blood tests for calcium, phosphate, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and vitamin D
• Genetic testing if familial form suspected
• Neurological examination and cognitive assessments

How Is It Treated?

• No cure for the calcification itself
• Treatment focuses on managing underlying cause (e.g., correcting calcium imbalance)
• Symptom-specific medications (e.g., anticonvulsants for seizures, antidepressants for mood disorders)
• Physical therapy and occupational therapy
• Psychological support or counseling
• Regular monitoring and follow-up care

How to Prevent It?

• Early diagnosis and management of metabolic or hormonal disorders
• Genetic counseling for inherited forms
• Avoid exposure to known neurotoxins
• Routine check-ups if there is a family history of the condition

When to Call a Doctor?

• Unexplained movement issues or tremors
• Changes in behavior, memory, or thinking
• New-onset seizures
• Family history of basal ganglia calcification with emerging symptoms
• Signs of calcium or hormonal imbalance