X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy

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Disease Overview

X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) is a genetic disease that affects the nervous system and the adrenal glands (small glands located on top of each kidney). People with this disease often have progressive loss of the fatty covering (myelin) that surrounds the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. They may also have a shortage of certain hormones that is caused by damage to the outer layer of the adrenal glands (adrenal cortex). This is called adrenocortical insufficiency, or Addison disease.[1000] There are three forms of X-ALD: a childhood cerebral form, an adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN) type, and an adrenal-insufficiency-only-type. The disease primarily affects males.[1000]

X-ALD is caused by a variation (mutation) in the ABCD1 gene and it is inherited in an X-linked. manner. Diagnosis of the disease is based on testing the levels of a molecule called very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFA). The diagnosis can be confirmed with genetic testing. There is still no cure for X-ALD, but taking special oils such as Lorenzo’s oil can lower the blood levels of VLCFA. Bone marrow transplantation may be an option for boys who have evidence of brain involvement on MRI, but do not yet have obvious symptoms of the disease with a normal neurological exam. Adrenocortical insufficiency is treated with corticosteroids.[1308] 


Synonyms

  • X-ALD
  • Adrenoleukodystrophy
  • ALD

For more information, visit GARD.

National Organization for Rare Disorders