New developments in the pathophysiology, clinical spectrum, and diagnosis of disorders of fatty acid oxidation.
Fatty acid oxidation disorders are among the most common inborn errors of metabolism affecting infants and children. Recognition of this family of defects is critical because careful dietary monitoring, avoidance of fasting, and prompt intervention during common childhood illness can prevent catastrophic cardiac and metabolic decompensation. This review focuses on new molecular and clinical diagnostic aspects of several of these disorders. Recent papers highlight the recognition that the clinical spectrum of disorders of fatty acid oxidation goes far beyond the stereotypical Reyes-like presentation or cardiomyopathy, and now encompasses more cases of sudden infant death syndrome, fulminant hepatic failure, and severe complications during pregnancy.
Treem
W R
WR
Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA. treem001@mc.duke.edu
D000105:Acetyl Coenzyme A / Q000172:deficiency / Q000378:metabolism; D002331:Carnitine / Q000172:deficiency / Q000378:metabolism; D005227:Fatty Acids / Q000378:metabolism*; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008052:Lipid Metabolism, Inborn Errors / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology; D008107:Liver Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D010084:Oxidation-Reduction; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000209:etiology*; D013398:Sudden Infant Death / Q000209:etiology*
D005227:Fatty Acids; D000105:Acetyl Coenzyme A; D002331:Carnitine