Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-04-06

Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP), also known as Strümpell-Lorrain disease or Familial Spastic Paraplegia, is a group of inherited neurological disorders characterized by progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs. Historical and Alternative Nomenclature Because Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia manifests in diverse genetic forms, it has historically been described by various names. You may encounter the term Strümpell-Lorrain disease in older medical literature, named after the clinicians who first described its clinical features.

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Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia synonyms

Other names for Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia: synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.

Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia is also known as...

Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP), also known as Strümpell-Lorrain disease or Familial Spastic Paraplegia, is a group of inherited neurological disorders characterized by progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs.



Historical and Alternative Nomenclature


Because Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia manifests in diverse genetic forms, it has historically been described by various names. You may encounter the term Strümpell-Lorrain disease in older medical literature, named after the clinicians who first described its clinical features. Other historical or descriptive synonyms include Familial Spastic Paraplegia and Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis. While these terms are often used interchangeably, "paraplegia" generally implies more severe motor impairment, while "paraparesis" suggests a milder degree of weakness.



Official Classifications


In modern clinical practice, the term Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia is the standard nomenclature used by organizations like the NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) and Orphanet. In the OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man) database, the condition is categorized under a vast array of SPG (Spastic Paraplegia Gene) numbers, reflecting the over 80 distinct genetic loci identified to date. The ICD-10 classifies these under G11.4 (Hereditary spastic paraplegia).



Why Multiple Names Exist


The existence of multiple names for Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia stems from the rapid evolution of genetic research. Initially, the disease was classified solely by its clinical presentation. As our understanding of the underlying genetic mutations expanded, the medical community shifted toward identifying specific subtypes (e.g., SPG4, SPG7) rather than using a single umbrella term. This shift allows for more precise diagnostic pathways and tailored clinical care. Despite these genetic advancements, Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia remains the most widely recognized and preferred term among neurologists and patient support groups worldwide to ensure consistency in medical records and research literature.



Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.



References



  • NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)

  • Orphanet: The portal for rare diseases and orphan drugs

  • OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man)

  • Spastic Paraplegia Foundation

Author: DiseaseMaps Editorial Team
Reviewed against authoritative medical sources (NIH GARD, Orphanet, OMIM)
Last updated: 2026-04-06
Medical disclaimer: This information does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before making health decisions.
Source: DiseaseMaps.org
3 answers
hereditary spastic paraparesis
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HEREDITARY SPASTIC PARAPLEGIA STORIES
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia stories
I am 52 years old and was diagnosed with Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP) when I was 36.  HSP is a progressive neurological condition caused by the inheritance of a faulty gene from an affected parent. My onset of this condition occurred in my la...
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia stories
Hi I have HSP SPG3A I am one of 7 over 3 generations who have it. 
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia stories
I started showing minor symptoms (heavy footedness) in 2007/8. There wasnt any previous knowledge of health issues anywhere on either side of my family that we knew of. Talking with my older brother on the phone, he lives in Sydney, we realised we bo...
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia stories
I am 53 and have been symptomatic all my life, (HSP3a). I have a cousin with HSP, but we don't keep in touch, my dad and an aunt also had HSP, but have since passed away. Other than these 3 family members i have never met anyone else with this diseas...
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With a family history of her mum being crippled and her grandmother in a wheelchair, neither living to an elderly age, Mum did not know there was a hereditary disease causing disability in her family.  It's difficult to pinpoint the onset of mum's ...

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