Holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency

Infobox_Disease
Name = PAGENAME


Caption = Biotin
DiseasesDB = 32709
ICD10 =
ICD9 =
ICDO =
OMIM = 253270
MedlinePlus =
eMedicineSubj = ped
eMedicineTopic = 1020
MeshID = D028922 | Holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency is an inherited metabolic disorder in which the body is unable to use the vitamin biotin effectively. This disorder is classified as a multiple carboxylase deficiency, a group of disorders characterized by impaired activity of certain enzymes that depend on biotin.

Diagnosis

The signs and symptoms of holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency typically appear within the first few months of life, but the age of onset varies. Affected infants often have immunodeficiency diseases, difficulty feeding, breathing problems, a skin rash, hair loss (alopecia), and a lack of energy (lethargy). Immediate treatment and lifelong management (using biotin supplements) may prevent many of these complications. If left untreated, the disorder can lead to delayed development, seizures, and coma. These medical problems may be life-threatening in some cases.

Genetics

Mutations in the "HLCS" gene cause holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency. The "HLCS" gene makes an enzyme, holocarboxylase synthetase, that attaches biotin to other molecules. Biotin, a B vitamin, is found in foods such as liver, egg yolks, and milk. It is essential for the normal production and breakdown of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in the body. Mutations in the "HLCS" gene reduce the activity of holocarboxylase synthetase, preventing cells from using biotin effectively and disrupting many cellular functions.

This condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, which means two copies of the gene in each cell are altered.

External links

"This article incorporates public domain text from [http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov The U.S. National Library of Medicine] "