Myelopathy due to lathyrism (Q97256)

Myelopathy can be related to the consumption of Lathyrus group of legumes containing large amounts of Glutamate analogue neurotoxin ?-oxalyl-L-?,?-diaminopropionic acid (ODAP, also known as ?-N-oxalyl-amino-L-alanine, or BOAA). This toxin causes an irreversible, but nonprogressive spastic paraparesis associated with degenerative changes in the spinal cord and involves the upper motor neuron as well as the anterior horn cells. Examination shows evidence of an upper motor neuron type of weakness with spasticity and hyperreflexia that causes a spastic gait disorder. Autonomic symptoms may be present with bladder and bowel dysfunction. Subjective sensory symptoms may be present, although objective sensory findings are unusual. The onset is often sudden and the acute phase of the disease may last for a month. The condition can be prevalent during famine and war as the legume is a hardy plant which can survive in difficult conditions. The disease is now only seen in few countries including India, Ethiopia, Bangladesh and Nepal.