Child Neurology: Molybdenum cofactor deficiency

Molybdenum cofactor deficiency (MoCD) is a rare inherited metabolic disorder characterized by neonatal onset intractable seizures, severe psychomotor retardation, dysmorphic facies, and dislocated ocular lenses. 1 A characteristic biochemical profile permits early diagnosis. Although more than 100 genetically characterized patients have been reported, this number is discrepant with the actual prevalence as MoCD is often mistaken for hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) secondary to perinatal asphyxia. It is important to recognize MoCD to provide appropriate genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis. 2 Effective pharmacotherapies that overcome the primary biochemical defect are also in the pipeline. We present a child with biochemically and genetically confirmed MoCD and discuss the clinical, imaging, biochemical, and genetic profile of this disorder. © 2015 American Academy of Neurology.