What is Fahr’s syndrome?
Fahr’s syndrome is a rare neurological condition where calcium builds up deep inside the brain – often affecting the basal ganglia. It causes problems with thinking, movement, speech and behaviour. You may hear doctors refer to these calcium deposits as brain calcifications.
There is currently no cure for Fahr’s syndrome, as doctors don’t yet know how to remove calcium once it has built up in the brain. Spotting the condition early helps manage symptoms more effectively, with the right treatment and support.
What causes Fahr’s syndrome?
Fahr’s can be caused in two main ways:
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- Fahr’s disease (primary familial brain calcification PFBC) – is an inherited form that affects the way minerals are moved and controlled in the brain. Calcium settles in parts of the brain over time, rather than staying in the bloodstream where it can be used and transported throughout the body. It is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, which means a child has 50% chance of inheriting the altered gene from either mum or dad.
- Fahr’s syndrome (secondary form) – certain metabolic and hormonal conditions can make it harder for the body to keep calcium levels balanced. Conditions such as chronic kidney disease or certain thyroid and parathyroid problems can cause low calcium levels that lead to a gradual build up of calcium in the brain.
What are the symptoms of Fahr’s syndrome?
Symptoms of Fahr’s syndrome develop slowly, over time. Symptoms vary widely, depending on where calcium settles in the brain. These include:
- Movement difficulties – such as muscle stiffness, tremors or twitching. Movements may appear slow and harder to perform.
- Balance and coordination problems – walking may feel unsteady, with increased risk of falls.
- Changes to thinking and memory – causing difficulty with remembering things and carrying out tasks.
- Speech and swallowing problems – speech may become slurred, or a person may struggle getting the correct words out.
- Behaviour and personality changes – some people may experience low mood, anxiety or lack of motivation.
- Seizures – these may appear as the condition progresses.
