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Inborn errors of metabolism

Metabolism - inborn errors of

 

Inborn errors of metabolism are rare genetic (inherited) disorders in which the body cannot properly turn food into energy. The disorders are usually caused by defects in specific proteins (enzymes) that help break down (metabolize) parts of food.

A food product that is not broken down into energy can build up in the body and cause a wide range of symptoms. Several inborn errors of metabolism cause developmental delays or other medical problems if they are not controlled.

There are many different types of inborn errors of metabolism.

A few of them are:

  • Fructose intolerance
  • Galactosemia
  • Maple sugar urine disease (MSUD)
  • Phenylketonuria (PKU)

Newborn screening tests can identify some of these disorders.

Registered dietitians and other health care providers can help create a diet that is right for each specific disorder.

 

References

Bodamer OA. Approach to inborn errors of metabolism. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman's Cecil Medicine . 25th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2015:chap 205.

Rezvani I, Rezvani G. An approach to inborn errors of metabolism. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics . 19th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2011:chap 78.

 
  • Galactosemia - illustration

    An infant with galactosemia is unable to use (metabolize) the simple sugar galactose, which reaches high levels in the body, causing damage to the liver, central nervous system and various other body systems. An infant with galactosemia may develop jaundice, vomiting, lethargy, irritability and convulsions.

    Galactosemia

    illustration

    • Galactosemia - illustration

      An infant with galactosemia is unable to use (metabolize) the simple sugar galactose, which reaches high levels in the body, causing damage to the liver, central nervous system and various other body systems. An infant with galactosemia may develop jaundice, vomiting, lethargy, irritability and convulsions.

      Galactosemia

      illustration

    A Closer Look

     

      Tests for Inborn errors of metabolism

       

         

        Review Date: 4/20/2015

        Reviewed By: Chad Haldeman-Englert, MD, FACMG, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Section on Medical Genetics, Winston-Salem, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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