Deficiencies in enzymes of the urea cycle
The Urea Cycle: Potential Causes, Symptoms, and Enzyme Deficiencies
The Urea Cycle is a process that the human body uses to remove nitrogen from the body. The cycle involves a series of reactions that occur in the liver. The nitrogen is then converted to urea, which is then eliminated from the body. This cycle helps keep the body’s nitrogen levels in balance, but if something goes wrong, it can cause potentially life-threatening toxicity.
The Urea Cycle is very complex and involves several enzymes. When one of these enzymes is deficient, it can lead to a buildup of nitrogen in the body, which can cause a range of symptoms. The most common cause of a deficiency in a Urea Cycle enzyme is a genetic disorder. These disorders can be passed down through families, and they can be very serious if they’re not treated.
The most common symptoms of a deficiency in a Urea Cycle enzyme are:
- Developmental delays
- Seizures
- Poor appetite
- Vomiting
- Hypoglycemia
- Weak muscles
- Lethargy
- Poor growth
If left untreated, a deficiency in a Urea Cycle enzyme can cause serious health complications, such as coma, kidney failure, and even death.
The most common Urea Cycle enzyme deficiencies are:
- Arginase deficiency
- Pi and/or Ornithine Transcarbamylase deficiency
- Argininosuccinate synthetase and/or lyase deficiency
- Urea cycle enzyme deficiency
- Citrulline deficiency
In many cases, a Urea Cycle enzyme deficiency can be treated with dietary modifications, supplements, and/or medications. However, the best way to treat a deficiency is to find the underlying cause and address it, if possible.
If you or your child is showing signs of a Urea Cycle enzyme deficiency, it’s important to get a diagnosis from a qualified healthcare provider as soon as possible. An accurate diagnosis will help you and your doctor determine the best treatment plan for you or your child.