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Tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency
Other Names for this Disease
- BH4 deficiency
- Hyperphenylalaninemia caused by a defect in biopterin metabolism
- Hyperphenylalaninemia, non-phenylketonuric
- Non-phenylketonuric hyperphenylalaninemia
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Overview
Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) deficiency is a neurological condition caused by an inborn error of metabolism. BH4 is a substance in the body that enhances the action of other enzymes. Deficiency of BH4 leads to abnormally high blood levels of the amino acid phenylalanine, and low levels of certain neurotransmitters.[1] Signs and symptoms can range from very mild to severe.[2] Affected newborns appear normal at birth, but may begin to experience neurological symptoms such as abnormal muscle tone; poor sucking and coordination; seizures; and delayed motor development. Without early, appropriate treatment, the condition can cause permanent intellectual disability and even death.[1] BH4 deficiency is caused by mutations in any one of several genes including the GCH1, PCBD1, PTS, and QDPR genes. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner.[3]Treatment depends on the genetic cause and severity, and may include a low phenylalanine diet; oral BH4 supplementation; and neurotransmitter replacement.[1]
References
- Tetrahydrobiopterin Deficiency. NORD. http://www.rarediseases.org/rare-disease-information/rare-diseases/byID/438/viewAbstract. Accessed October 31, 2012.
- Noah S Scheinfeld. Tetrahydrobiopterin Deficiency. Medscape Reference. http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/949470-overview. Accessed November 2, 2012.
- Tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency. Genetics Home Reference. http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/tetrahydrobiopterin-deficiency. Accessed November 2, 2012.
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General Information
- Genetics Home Reference (GHR) contains information on Tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency. Click on the link to go to GHR and review the information.
- Medscape Reference provides information on this topic. Click on the link to view this information. You may need to register to view the medical textbook, but registration is free.
- The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is a federation of more than 130 nonprofit voluntary health organizations serving people with rare disorders. Click on the link to view information on this topic.
- PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.
- The The Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database contains genetics resources that discuss Tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency. Click on the link to go to OMIM and review these resources.