Definition
Definition
Inherited metabolic diseases are a group of disorders that result in missing or defective enzymes. The enzyme problems can lead to:
- A build up of harmful substances that the enzymes would otherwise breakdown
- An inability to fully breakdown food for use in the cells
There are thousands of inherited metabolic diseases.
Causes
Causes
These diseases are caused by a problem with the genes that determine how specific enzymes are made. The genes are passed on from parent(s) to child.
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Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Inherited metabolic disease is more common in families with Ashkenazi Jewish, Finnish, or Dutch heritage. A family history increases the chance of these diseases as well.
Symptoms
Symptoms
Most inborn errors of metabolism are found as a result of newborn screening tests. If no screening tests are available or the disease is not detected on screening test, symptoms develop.
Symptoms can be severe and appear shortly after birth. Tell your doctor if your infant has any of these:
- Excessive sleepiness
- Weak muscles
- Persistent vomiting
- Feeding problems
- Muscle spasms or twitches
- Developmental delays
- Seizures
- Problems with hearing or sight
- Problems with the liver, including jaundice
- Problems with the heart or kidney
Symptoms can also be mild and detected later in life. Children 1 year old and over can have additional neurologic symptoms. Tell your doctor if your child has any of these:
- Trouble with balance
- Involuntary movements
- Loss of sensation or mevement
- Muscle tightening
- Behavior or psychiatric problems
- Loss of developmental skills, language, or physical skills
These symptoms may be caused by other conditions. If your child has any of these, talk to the doctor.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Blood tests will be done to help identify which of the many possible causes it might be. This will help narrow the possibilities to a few specific conditions. Further testing of skin and blood will be done to confirm the diagnosis and/or look for the specific enzyme that is causing the problem.
Other tests may be done to look for any problems that may have developed. Tests may include:
- Screening tests for vision and hearing
- Eye exams
- Neuropsychological testing—measures mental function
- MRI scan
- Lumbar puncture —fluid is taken from the spine and examined
- Tissue biopsy —a sample of tissues is taken and examined
- Electromyogram (EMG)—measures electrical impulses in the muscles
- Other special tests of the heart, liver, and kidneys
Prenatal testing and newborn screening may help with early detection.
Treatment
Treatment
Some infants and children will need immediate support with intravenous fluids and medications. Ongoing treatment will depend on the type of condition your child has.
Talk with the doctor about the best treatment plan for your child. Options may include:
Nutrition
Dietary changes that may be required include avoiding certain foods, avoiding long periods of not eating, or taking vitamins.
Ongoing Symptom Management
To manage symptoms and other conditions, your child may need:
- Dialysis
- Physical therapy
- Surgery
- Medications
Enzyme Therapy
- Substrate Synthesis Inhibition Therapy (SSI)—Medication that decreases the item that build up in the cells due to missing enzymes.
- Enzyme Replacement Therapy (ERT)—Working enzymes are delivered through an IV to do the job of the defective enzymes.
- Stem Cell Transplant— Stem cells are transplanted through IV to encourage the body to make the missing enzyme.
Ongoing Monitoring
For some conditions, regular annual screening tests will be needed, such as:
- Vision and hearing tests
- Electrocardiogram (EKG) and echocardiogram to assess heart function
Prevention
Prevention
There are no current guidelines to prevent these disorders.
RESOURCES:
Society for Inherited Metabolic Disorders http://www.simd.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca
References:
http://www.climb.org.uk/imd.html?s=information+for+professionals
Accessed August 11, 2015.
Lipid Storage Disease. National Institute of Neurological Disorders an Stroke website. Available at:
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/lipid_storage_diseases/detail_lipid_storage_diseases.htm
Updated January 13, 2015. Accessed August 11, 2015. Mak CM, Lee HC, Chan AY, Lam CW. Inborn errors of metabolism and expanded newborn screening: review and update. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci. 2013 Nov;50(6):142-62. Approach to the child with possible inborn error of metabolism. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed
Accessed August 11, 2015.
Last Updated: 8/11/2015