Last updated: 10/2/2024
Years published: 2000, 2002, 2003, 2017, 2020, 2024
NORD gratefully acknowledges Gioconda Alyea, MD (FMG), MS, National Organization for Rare Disorders, John M. Schreiber, MD, Childrenโs National Hospital and Carolyn Hoffman, SSADH Association, for assistance in the preparation of this report.
Summary
Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase (SSADH) deficiency is a rare inborn error of metabolism characterized by various neurological and neuromuscular symptoms and findings.
Signs and symptoms are extremely variable from person to person, including among affected members of the same families (kindreds). However, most individuals with SSADH deficiency have by mild to severe intellectual disability, delays in the acquisition of skills requiring the coordination of mental and physical activities (psychomotor delay) and delays in language and speech development.
In some people, initial findings may include diminished muscle tone (hypotonia), an impaired ability to coordinate voluntary movements (ataxia) and/or episodes of uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain (seizures).
Some affected individuals may also have additional abnormalities such as decreased reflex reactions (hyporeflexia); involuntary, rapid, rhythmic eye movements (nystagmus); increased muscular activity (hyperkinesis) and/or behavioral abnormalities.
SSHDH deficiency is caused by changes (variants) in the ALDH5A1 gene, which provides instructions for making the SSADH enzyme. The changes in the ALDH5A1 gene result in deficient activity of the SSADH enzyme disrupting the metabolism of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is a natural chemical known as a โneurotransmitterโ that serves to inhibit the electrical activities of nerve cells (inhibitory neurotransmitter). SSADH deficiency also leads to abnormal accumulation of the compound succinic semialdehyde, which is reduced or converted to GBH (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid). GHB is a natural compound that has a wide range of effects within the nervous system.
The โhallmarkโ laboratory finding associated with SSADH deficiency is elevated levels of GHB in the urine (i.e., 4-hydroxybutyric or gamma-hydroxybutyric aciduria), the liquid portion of the blood (plasma) and the fluid that flows through the brain and spinal canal (cerebrospinal fluid [CSF]).
Treatment is based on the symptoms that the affected person has and may include medication and supportive management.
Symptoms can vary widely in range, severity and presentation, even among family members. Many of the neurological and neuromuscular symptoms are considered โnonspecificโ, meaning they can be seen in other conditions, making diagnosis more challenging. Most affected people show some degree of developmental delays in childhood, particularly in physical, mental and behavioral skills.
The main symptoms in SSADH deficiency may include:
Some symptoms improve with age, such as non-progressive ataxia. Symptoms like drowsiness may be more common in younger individuals, while hyperactivity or aggressive behavior are more likely in older individuals.
SSADH deficiency is caused by changes (variants) in the ALDH5A1 gene, which provides instructions for making the SSADH enzyme. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down succinic semialdehyde into less harmful substances. Because this enzyme doesnโt work properly, succinic semialdehyde builds up and gets converted into GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid), leading to high levels of GHB and disrupted GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) metabolism.
These chemical imbalances contribute to the symptoms of SSADH deficiency, but researchers are still working to understand the exact roles that GABA and GHB play in this disorder.
GABA and GHB are neurotransmitters, which help nerve cells communicate by either stimulating or inhibiting nerve signals. Neurotransmitters modify or result in the transmission of nerve impulses from one nerve cell (neuron) to another, enabling neurons to communicate. More specifically, these natural chemicals either serve to trigger or inhibit the electrical activities of โtargetedโ neurons (i.e., excitatory or inhibitory neurons).
GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, meaning it helps to slow down nerve signals to prevent overstimulation.
GHB, which is formed from the breakdown of GABA, has wide effects on the brain and body, though its exact role isnโt fully understood. Individuals with SSADH deficiency have unusually elevated levels of GHB in urine, plasma and cerebrospinal fluid. In high amounts, GHB can cause sedation, low muscle tone (hypotonia) and even seizures. GHB is also used in certain medications, including treatment of sleep disorders such as narcolepsy, but it can have unwanted effects. Although there is evidence that it acts as a neurotransmitter, its specific functions in the brain remain unknown.
Studies have shown that younger individuals with relatively high GHB concentrations in bodily fluids may tend to be affected by drowsiness. In contrast, in older individuals with lower GHB concentrations, symptoms may tend to include abnormally increased activity or aggressive behaviors. Based upon such findings, some researchers suggest that GHB may act on inhibitory nerve cell (neuron) receptors at high concentrations and excitatory receptors at low concentrations (receptors are specific sites on the surface of a neuron that bind with neurotransmitters).
Furthermore, SSADH deficiency results in a decrease in GABA receptors in early life, also likely contributing to the shift towards more excitation.
Further research is required to learn more about GHBโs mode of action and to determine whether the neurological symptoms associated with SSADH deficiency result from increased accumulations of GHB, disturbances of GABA levels, a combination of both, or other abnormalities.
SSADH deficiency is an inborn error of metabolism that is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. โMetabolismโ refers to all the chemical processes in the body, including the breakdown of complex substances into simpler ones (catabolism), usually with the release of energy, and processes in which complex substances are built up from simpler ones (anabolism), usually resulting in energy consumption. Inborn errors of metabolism result from abnormal functioning of a specific protein or enzyme that accelerates chemical activities in the body.
Recessive genetic disorders occur when an individual inherits a disease-causing gene variant from each parent. If an individual receives one normal gene and one disease-causing gene variant, the person will be a carrier for the disease, but usually will not show symptoms. The risk for two carrier parents to both pass the gene variant and have an affected child is 25% with each pregnancy. The risk of having a child who is a carrier like the parents is 50% with each pregnancy. The chance for a child to receive normal genes from both parents is 25%. The risk is the same for males and females.
SSADH deficiency appears to affect males and females relatively equally and has been reported worldwide. Since the disorder was originally described in 1981 about 450 patients have been identified as of 2020.
The exact prevalence is not known but according to a large support organization for this disease, Succinic Semialdehyde Dehydrogenase Deficiency Association, the prevalence is about 1 in 500,000. Because of the non-specific nature of the clinical features, the disorder may be often underdiagnosed. The most common presentation is during childhood, but rarely the onset of symptoms can occur in adolescence or adulthood.
The diagnosis of SSADH deficiency is usually made after birth during infancy or childhood (or, in some people, adulthood), based upon a thorough clinical evaluation, identification of characteristic physical findings and a variety of specialized tests.
Due to the nonspecific nature and variability of associated symptoms, experts suggest that SSADH deficiency should be considered in any individuals with two or more features of intellectual, language, and motor delay and abnormally diminished muscle tone (hypotonia) of unknown cause (idiopathic).
Since the symptoms can vary and arenโt specific to just this condition, doctors recommend testing for SSADH deficiency if a person shows intellectual, language and motor delays along with low muscle tone (hypotonia) that canโt be explained by another cause.
Tests used to diagnose SSADH deficiency include:
Imaging and brain scans should also be part of the diagnostic process and may include:
The diagnosis of SSADH deficiency involves a combination of these tests. The urine test for 4-HBA and genetic testing are key to confirming the condition. MRI and EEG help doctors understand how SSADH is affecting the brain and guide treatment. Early diagnosis can help improve treatment outcomes and provide families with the necessary support and care.
In some people, a diagnosis of SSADH deficiency may be suggested before birth (prenatally) by specialized tests. These include studies that may detect increased concentrations of 4-ydroxybutyric acid (GHB) in fluid surrounding the developing fetus (amniotic fluid) and deficient activity of the SSADH enzyme in certain fetal cells obtained via amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS). During amniocentesis, a sample of fluid that surrounds the fetus is removed and analyzed, whereas CVS involves the removal of tissue samples from a portion of the placenta.
Treatment
The treatment of SSADH deficiency is focused on addressing the specific symptoms that the affected person has. This approach often requires the coordinated efforts of a team of medical professionals including pediatricians, pediatric neurologists (specialists in neurological disorders in children) and other healthcare providers such as psychiatrists and allied health professionals including physical, occupational and speech therapists who can work to improve motor skills, communication and daily functioning.
Families require ongoing social support to help manage the challenges of living with SSADH deficiency. Social workers and community nurses are important for providing resources, coordinating care and ensuring patients have the support they need.
Although there is currently no curative treatment for SSADH deficiency, several symptomatic and supportive management options are available.
Seizure treatment may involve the use of certain anti-seizure medications (anticonvulsants) to prevent, reduce, or control seizures. Broad-spectrum anticonvulsants are recommended. The medication vigabatrin should be avoided due to the side effects and sodium valproate should not be used because it inhibits the SSADH enzyme, except in people whose seizures do not improve with other medication. Treatment must be individualized.
Neurobehavioral symptoms such as anxiety, depression and behavioral disorders are commonly treated with a variety of medication including:
Early intervention is critical for children with SSADH deficiency to ensure they reach their full developmental potential. Beneficial services may include:
SSADH deficiency is a lifelong genetic disorder and as the affected person ages, the symptoms and complications of this condition tend to change and, in many cases, worsen. Compulsive behavior, sleep disturbances and seizures become more prominent during adolescence and adulthood.
One of the serious risks for adults with SSADH deficiency is SUDEP (sudden unexpected death in epilepsy), which highlights the importance of closely monitoring epilepsy as affected people grow older. This disorder often leads to a progressive decline in neurological function, with worsening epilepsy, neuropsychiatric issues and sleep problems as individuals age.
The main complications include:
The earlier SSADH deficiency is identified and treated, the better the outcomes. Early diagnosis and proactive treatment can help reduce complications like SUDEP and improve overall quality of life. Regular monitoring and timely treatment adjustments are essential to managing the progression of the disorder.
Genetic counseling is recommended for affected individuals and their families to help them understand the inheritance pattern and future risks.
The Succinic Semialdehyde Dehydrogenase Deficiency Association offers information for patients, families and physicians interested in obtaining clinical and/or therapeutic information on SSADH deficiency. See also their parent guide. The publication Consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and management of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency is the result of an effort of an SSADHD Consensus Group to consolidate and unify the optimal care that can be provided to individuals with SSADHD.
Vigabatrin is an anti-seizure medication that decreases the formation of succinic semialdehyde and is, in theory, an exciting treatment option for SSADH deficiency. However, clinical experience has been mixed.
Several other potential therapies are being studied including:
Information on current clinical trials is posted on the Internet at www.clinicaltrials.gov.
All studies receiving U.S. government funding, and some supported by private industry, are posted on this government web site.
For information about clinical trials being conducted at the NIH Clinical Center in Bethesda, MD, contact the NIH Patient Recruitment Office:
Toll-free: (800) 411-1222
TTY: (866) 411-1010
Email: [email protected]
Some current clinical trials also are posted on the following page on the NORD website:
https://rarediseases.org/living-with-a-rare-disease/find-clinical-trials/
For information about clinical trials sponsored by private sources, in the main, contact:
www.centerwatch.com
For more information about clinical trials conducted in Europe, contact:
https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/
TEXTBOOKS
Pearl PL and Gibson KM. Succinic Semialdehyde Dehydrogenase Deficiency. In: NORD Guide to Rare Disorders. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Philadelphia, PA. 2003:499.
JOURNAL ARTICLES
Tokatly Latzer I, Bertoldi M, Blau N, et al. Consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and management of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency. Mol Genet Metab. 2024;142(1):108363. doi:10.1016/j.ymgme.2024.108363
Didiรกลกovรก M, Banning A, Brennenstuhl H, Jung-Klawitter S, Cinquemani C, Opladen T, Tikkanen R. Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency: an update. Cells. 2020 Feb 19;9(2):477. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7072817/
DiBacco ML, Roullet JB, Kapur K, et al. Age-related phenotype and biomarker changes in SSADH deficiency. Ann Clin Transl Neurol. 2018;6:114-120.
Vogel KR, Ainslie GR, Gibson KM. mTOR inhibitors rescue premature lethality and attenuate dysregulation of GABAergic/glutamatergic transcription in murine succinate semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (SSADHD), a disorder of GABA metabolism. J Inherit Metab Dis. 2016 Nov;39(6):877-886.
Schreiber JM, Pearl PL, Dustin I, Wiggs E, Barrios E, Wassermann EM, Gibson KM, Theodore WH. Biomarkers in a taurine trial for succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency. JIMD Rep. 2016;30:81-87.
Pearl PL, Schreiber J, Theodore WH, McCarter R, Barrios ES, Tyu J, Wiggs E, He J, Gibson KM. Taurine trial in succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency and elevaed CNS GABA. Neurology. 2014 Mar 18;82(11):940-944.
Epilepsy in succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency, a disorder of GABA metabolism. Brain Dev. 2011 Oct;33(9):796-805.
Pearl PL, Gibson KM, Quezado Z, Dustin I, Taylor J, Trzcinski S, Schreiber J, Forester K, Reeves-Tyer P, Liew C, Shamim S, Herscovitch P, Carson R, Butman J, Jakobs C, Theodore W. Decreased GABA-A binding on FMZ-PET in succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency. Neurology. 2009 Aug 11;73(6):423-429.
Pearl PL, et al., Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency in children and adults. Ann Neurol. 2003;54:S73-80.
Gropman A, Vigabatrin and newer interventions in succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency. Ann Neurol. 2003;54:S66-72.
Gupta M, Greven R, Jansen EE, et al. Therapeutic intervention in mice deficient for succinate semialdehyde dehydrogenase (gamma hydroxybutyric aciduria). J PharmacolExpTher. 2002;302:180-87.
Hogema BM, Gupta M, Senephransiri H, et al. Pharmacologic rescue of lethal seizures in mice deficient in succinate semialdehyde dehydrogenase. Nat Genet. 2001;29:212-16.
Hogema BM, Akaboshi S, Taylor M, et al. Prenatal diagnosis of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency: increased accuracy employing DNA, enzyme, and metabolic analyses. Mol Genet Metab. 2001;72:218-22.
Peters H, Cleary M, Boneh A. Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency in siblings: clinical heterogeneity and response to early treatment. J Inherit Metab Dis. 1999;22:198-199.
Gibson KM, Sweetman L, Kozich V, et al. Unusual enzyme findings in five patients with metabolic profiles suggestive of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (4-hydroxybutyric aciduria). J Inherit Metab Dis. 1998;21:255-261.
Chambliss KL, Hinson DD, Trettel F, et al. Two exon-skipping mutations as the molecular basis of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (4-hydroxybutyric aciduria). Am J Hum Genet. 1998;63:399-408.
Gibson KM, Doskey AE, Rabier D, et al. Differing clinical presentation of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency in adolescent siblings from Lifu Island, New Caledonia. J Inherit Metab Dis. 1997;20:370-374.
Gibson KM, Christensen E, Jakobs C, et al. The clinical phenotype of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (4-hydroxybutyric aciduria): case reports of 23 new patients. Pediatrics. 1997;99:567-574.
Trettel F, Malaspina P, Jodice C, et al. Human succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase: molecular cloning and chromosomal localization. AdvExp Med Biol. 1997;414:253-260.
Matern D, Lehnert W, Gibson KM, et al. Seizures in a boy with succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency treated with vigabatrin (gamma-vinyl-GABA). J Inherit Metab Dis. 1996;19:313-318.
Peters H, Cleary M, Boneh A. Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency in siblings: clinical heterogeneity and response to early treatment. J Inherit Metab Dis. 1999;22:198-199.
Gibson KM, Hoffmann GF, Hodson AK, et al. 4-Hydroxybutyric acid and the clinical phenotype of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency, an inborn error of GABA metabolism. Neuropediatrics. 1998;29:14-22.
Gibson KM, Sweetman L, Kozich V, et al. Unusual enzyme findings in five patients with metabolic profiles suggestive of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (4-hydroxybutyric aciduria). J Inherit Metab Dis. 1998;21:255-261.
Chambliss KL, Hinson DD, Trettel F, et al. Two exon-skipping mutations as the molecular basis of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (4-hydroxybutyric aciduria). Am J Hum Genet. 1998;63:399-408.
Gibson KM, Doskey AE, Rabier D, et al. Differing clinical presentation of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency in adolescent siblings from Lifu Island, New Caledonia. J Inherit Metab Dis. 1997;20:370-374.
Gibson KM, Christensen E, Jakobs C, et al. The clinical phenotype of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (4-hydroxybutyric aciduria): case reports of 23 new patients. Pediatrics. 1997;99:567-574.
Trettel F, Malaspina P, Jodice C, et al. Human succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase: molecular cloning and chromosomal localization. AdvExp Med Biol. 1997;414:253-260.
Matern D, Lehnert W, Gibson KM, et al. Seizures in a boy with succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency treated with vigabatrin (gamma-vinyl-GABA). J Inherit Metab Dis. 1996;19:313-318.
Jakobs C, Ogier H, Rabier D, et al. Prenatal detection of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (4-hydroxybutyric aciduria) [letter]. Prenatal Diag. 1993;13:150.
INTERNET
Pearl PL, Wiwattanadittakul N, Roullet JB, et al. Succinic Semialdehyde Dehydrogenase Deficiency. 2004 May 5 [Updated 2016 Apr 28]. In: Adam MP, Ardinger HH, Pagon RA, et al., editors. GeneReviewsยฎ [Internet]. Seattle (WA): University of Washington, Seattle; 1993-2024. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1195/ Accessed Oct 2, 2024.
Sergi C, Parayil Sankaran B. Succinic Semialdehyde Dehydrogenase Deficiency. [Updated 2023 Aug 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560724/ Accessed Oct 2, 2024.
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