Symptom 6: Mood and Behavioural Changes: A Psychological Impact of Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis
Individuals with Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis often exhibit mood and behavioural changes that are a direct result of their condition. Such changes range from subtle shifts in personality to more noticeable alterations such as increased irritability, anxiety, or depression. These symptoms can be among the most challenging aspects of the disease, affecting both the individual and their families.
Initially, these changes might seem inconspicuous, appearing as occasional mood swings or behavioural issues. For instance, a typically calm and composed child might show uncharacteristic outbursts of anger, or a usually social child might prefer solitude. The seemingly insignificant changes might be misunderstood as mere growing pains or developmental phases.
However, as NCL progresses, these mood and behavioural changes may become more pronounced. Parents might notice the child withdrawing from social activities, showing signs of anxiety, or displaying unusual behaviour patterns. It can be an emotional and challenging time for families, who might struggle to understand these shifts in behaviour.
The underlying mechanism behind these changes is the accumulation of lipofuscin in the brain’s regions associated with mood regulation and behaviour control. As these regions get impaired, the ability to manage emotions and behaviours appropriately also gets compromised, leading to the observed symptoms. (6)
