Ornithine translocase deficiency

From WikiMD's Medical Encyclopedia

Revision as of 05:36, 9 April 2025 by Prab (talk | contribs) (CSV import)
(diff) ← Older revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD's medical weight loss NYC, sleep center NYC
Philadelphia medical weight loss and Philadelphia sleep clinics

Ornithine translocase deficiency
Synonyms Hyperornithinemia-hyperammonemia-homocitrullinuria syndrome (HHH syndrome)
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Hyperammonemia, encephalopathy, seizures, ataxia, lethargy
Complications N/A
Onset Neonatal or early childhood
Duration Chronic
Types N/A
Causes Mutations in the SLC25A15 gene
Risks Genetic predisposition
Diagnosis Genetic testing, ammonia levels, urine organic acids
Differential diagnosis Urea cycle disorders, ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency
Prevention N/A
Treatment Low-protein diet, ammonia scavengers, arginine supplementation
Medication N/A
Prognosis Variable, depends on early diagnosis and management
Frequency Rare
Deaths Can be fatal if untreated


Autosomal Recessive Inheritance Pattern

Ornithine translocase deficiency is a rare metabolic disorder characterized by an inability of the body to transport the amino acid ornithine. This condition is also known as Hyperornithinemia-Hyperammonemia-Homocitrullinuria (HHH) syndrome. It is a type of urea cycle disorder, which affects the body's ability to get rid of ammonia, a toxic byproduct of protein metabolism.

Symptoms[edit]

The symptoms of Ornithine translocase deficiency can vary widely, ranging from mild to severe. They may include neurological problems, such as developmental delay, intellectual disability, and seizures; gastrointestinal issues, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and failure to thrive; and other symptoms, such as liver disease and hair loss.

Causes[edit]

Ornithine translocase deficiency is caused by mutations in the SLC25A15 gene. This gene provides instructions for making a protein that is found in the mitochondria, the energy-producing centers of cells. The protein, called ornithine translocase, is responsible for transporting ornithine across the mitochondrial membrane.

Diagnosis[edit]

Diagnosis of Ornithine translocase deficiency is typically made through genetic testing, which can identify mutations in the SLC25A15 gene. Other tests, such as blood tests and urine tests, may also be used to measure levels of ammonia and other substances in the body.

Treatment[edit]

Treatment for Ornithine translocase deficiency typically involves a low-protein diet to reduce the amount of ammonia produced by the body. Medications may also be used to help remove ammonia from the body. In severe cases, liver transplantation may be considered.

Prognosis[edit]

The prognosis for individuals with Ornithine translocase deficiency varies depending on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many individuals with this condition can lead relatively normal lives.

See also[edit]


This metabolic pathology-related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.

This article is a stub related to genetics. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!


Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Ad. Transform your health with W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & MedSpa

Tired of being overweight?

Get started with evidence based, physician-supervised

affordable GLP-1 weight loss injections

Now available in New York City and Philadelphia:

✔ Evidence-based medical weight loss ✔ Insurance-friendly visits available ✔ Same-week appointments, evenings & weekends

Learn more:

Start your transformation today with W8MD weight loss centers.

Advertise on WikiMD


WikiMD Medical Encyclopedia

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Content may be inaccurate or outdated and should not be used for diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for medical decisions. Verify information with trusted sources such as CDC.gov and NIH.gov. By using this site, you agree that WikiMD is not liable for any outcomes related to its content. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.