Roussy-Levy syndrome (RSL) is a movement disorder with onset in early childhood. The disorder was first identified in 1926. It is an autosomal dominant inherited degenerative disease of the central nervous system characterized predominantly by ataxia, high arched feet, and areflexia; it is eventually associated with distal muscle atrophy, postural tremor, and minor sensory loss. Slow nerve conduction and demyelination of nerve fibers led to consideration of RLS as a variant of demyelinating Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
A uncommon genetic condition that impacts the nerves and muscles, Roussy–Levy disease typically manifests symptoms in early childhood. The disorder bears similarities to peroneal muscular atrophy and is caused by the deterioration of nerves that serve the lower legs and forearms.
Characteristics of Roussy–Levy disease consist of leg weakness, muscle atrophy, and impaired coordination, as well as claw-like deformities of the feet and hand tremors. Spinal curvature abnormalities may also be present. The condition follows an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern.