Pallidal stimulation improves pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration

Pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) causes a progressive generalized dystonia which remains pharmacologically intractable. We performed bilateral internal globus pallidus stimulation in six patients with genetically confirmed PKAN who obtained a major and long-lasting improvement of their painful spasms, dystonia, and finictional autonomy. This study shows the benefits of pallidal DBS for the dystonia of PKAN patients.