About Hereditary Hyperphosphatasia

What is Hereditary Hyperphosphatasia?

Hereditary hyperphosphatasia is a rare genetic disorder that affects the metabolism of phosphate in the body. It is caused by mutations in the ENPP1 gene, which is responsible for producing an enzyme called alkaline phosphatase. People with this disorder have abnormally low levels of alkaline phosphatase, which can lead to a buildup of phosphate in the blood and tissues. Symptoms of hereditary hyperphosphatasia can include bone and joint pain, muscle weakness, and growth delays. Treatment typically involves medications to reduce phosphate levels and physical therapy to help manage symptoms.

What are the symptoms of Hereditary Hyperphosphatasia?

The symptoms of Hereditary Hyperphosphatasia vary depending on the age of the individual. In infants, symptoms may include failure to thrive, poor feeding, vomiting, and seizures. In older children and adults, symptoms may include bone pain, muscle weakness, joint pain, and fractures. Other symptoms may include anemia, kidney stones, and calcification of soft tissues.

What are the causes of Hereditary Hyperphosphatasia?

Hereditary hyperphosphatasia is caused by mutations in the ENPP1 gene, which is responsible for producing the enzyme alkaline phosphatase. Mutations in this gene can lead to a decrease in the production of alkaline phosphatase, resulting in an accumulation of phosphate in the body. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including bone and joint pain, muscle weakness, and fatigue.

What are the treatments for Hereditary Hyperphosphatasia?

1. Dietary modifications: Restricting dietary phosphorus intake and increasing calcium intake can help reduce the symptoms of Hereditary Hyperphosphatasia.

2. Medications: Medications such as phosphate binders, calcimimetics, and vitamin D analogs can help reduce the levels of phosphorus in the blood.

3. Dialysis: In severe cases, dialysis may be necessary to remove excess phosphorus from the body.

4. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected organs or tissues.

5. Gene therapy: Gene therapy is a promising treatment option for Hereditary Hyperphosphatasia. It involves introducing a healthy gene into the affected cells to replace the mutated gene.

What are the risk factors for Hereditary Hyperphosphatasia?

1. Family history of the disorder
2. Genetic mutations in the ENPP1 gene
3. Advanced age
4. Male gender
5. Low levels of vitamin D
6. Low levels of calcium in the blood
7. High levels of phosphate in the blood
8. Kidney disease
9. Liver disease
10. Diabetes

Is there a cure/medications for Hereditary Hyperphosphatasia?

There is no cure for Hereditary Hyperphosphatasia, but medications can be used to help manage the symptoms. These medications include phosphate binders, calcimimetics, and vitamin D analogs. Additionally, dietary changes may be recommended to reduce the amount of phosphate in the diet.