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Homocystinuria is a rare inherited disease that causes a deficiency of one of several enzymes needed for the breakdown of food (metabolism). This enzyme deficiency may cause a buildup of homocysteine in the blood. Excess homocysteine may be released in the urine.
Babies born with homocystinuria may fail to grow and gain weight (failure to thrive) and may experience developmental delays. People with homocystinuria may develop diseases of the heart and blood vessels at a young age. If homocystinuria is not diagnosed in infancy, other problems may develop, including:
People with homocystinuria may have a thin appearance, with long, slender arms, legs, fingers, and toes.
Treatment for homocystinuria may include eating foods low in certain amino acids and taking vitamin supplements and medicine to enhance the breakdown of homocysteine.
Current as of: November 22, 2021
Author: Healthwise StaffMedical Review: E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal MedicineAdam Husney MD - Family MedicineMartin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
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