| Risk Factors
Homocystinuria is disorder of the metabolism. It causes low levels of a specific enzyme. These enzymes normally help to break down the amino acids methionine and homocysteine.
This causes the buildup of these amino acids.
The most common form of homocystinuria is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme cystathionine beta-synthase. Homocystinuria is a genetic disorder. The faulty genes are inherited from the parents. Both parents must have the defective gene in order for the child to develop the condition.
Homocystinuria is more common in New South Wales, Australia, and Ireland.
If both parents carry the faulty gene, there is a:
- 25% chance the child will be born with the disorder
- 50% chance the child will be a carrier of the faulty gene
The number and severity of symptoms vary. Symptoms may include:
and other visual problems
- Flush across the cheeks, fair complexion
- Tall, thin build
- Delays in growth
- Long limbs
- High-arched feet
- Abnormal formation of the rib cage
- Protrusion of the chest over the sternum
- Developmental delays
- Intellectual disability
Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
Homocystinuria may have serious complications, such as the development of blood clots. This could lead to a
heart attack, or severe
high blood pressure.
Early treatment is important. Many states require that newborns be screened for homocystinuria. The test usually looks for high levels of methionine. If the test is positive, blood or urine tests can be done to confirm the diagnosis. These tests can detect high levels of methionine, homocysteine, and other sulfur-containing amino acids. Tests to detect an enzyme deficiency may be done as well.
Prenatal diagnosis of homocystinuria is available. It is done with samples taken during an amniocentesis or chorionic villi sample.
To look for potential complications the following tests may also be done:
to look for bone problems
- An eye exam to look for eye problems
There is no specific cure for homocystinuria. Treatment is focused on managing the levels of methionine. It should begin as early as possible. Treatment may include medication and/or a special diet.
Many people respond to high doses of
vitamin B6. The supplement will be needed for the rest of your life. A normal dose of folic acid
supplement is helpful.
Other medications may also be occasionally needed.
A special diet may help people who don't respond to or don't respond fully to vitamin B6 treatment. Starting the diet early in life can help prevent intellectual disability and other complications. In general, the diet:
- Restricts foods with methionine
- Consists mainly of fruits and vegetables
- Allows little, if any, meats, eggs, dairy products, breads, and pastas
Genetic counseling is recommended for people with a family history of homocystinuria. The counselor will help you determine the risk your child has of developing homocystinuria.
EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php. Updated August 28, 2011. Accessed August 13, 2013.
Homocystinuria. Genetics Home Reference website. Available at:
http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition=homocystinuria. Published August 12, 2013. Accessed August 13, 2013.
National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc. website. Available at:
http://www.rarediseases.org/rare-disease-information/rare-diseases/byID/463/viewAbstract. Accessed August 13, 2013.
Last reviewed August 2013 by Michael Woods, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © EBSCO Publishing. All rights reserved.