About Infantile nephropathic cystinosis

What is Infantile nephropathic cystinosis?

Infantile nephropathic cystinosis is a rare, inherited metabolic disorder that affects the kidneys and other organs. It is caused by a defect in the gene that codes for the lysosomal transporter protein cystinosin, which is responsible for transporting the amino acid cystine out of cells. This leads to an accumulation of cystine in the lysosomes of cells, which can cause damage to the kidneys, eyes, muscles, and other organs. Symptoms of infantile nephropathic cystinosis include poor growth, dehydration, kidney failure, and vision problems. Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, dietary changes, and regular monitoring of kidney function.

What are the symptoms of Infantile nephropathic cystinosis?

The symptoms of infantile nephropathic cystinosis include:

-Failure to thrive

-Dehydration

-Excessive thirst and urination

-Vomiting

-Lethargy

-Poor appetite

-Cloudy or bloody urine

-High levels of amino acids in the blood

-High levels of cystine in the urine

-Enlarged kidneys

-High blood pressure

-Kidney failure

-Liver and pancreas problems

-Corneal deposits

-Muscle wasting

-Delayed growth and development

-Bone abnormalities

-Hypothyroidism

-Diabetes

-Cataracts

-Hearing loss

What are the causes of Infantile nephropathic cystinosis?

Infantile nephropathic cystinosis is caused by a genetic mutation in the CTNS gene, which is responsible for producing the cystinosin protein. This mutation results in a deficiency of the cystinosin protein, which leads to an accumulation of the amino acid cystine in the cells of the body, particularly in the kidneys, eyes, and brain.

What are the treatments for Infantile nephropathic cystinosis?

The primary treatment for infantile nephropathic cystinosis is cysteamine (Cystagon), a medication that helps reduce the amount of cystine in the body. Other treatments may include:

• Dietary modifications to reduce the amount of cystine in the diet

• Vitamin and mineral supplements to replace lost nutrients

• Medications to reduce the amount of cystine in the urine

• Dialysis to remove excess cystine from the body

• Kidney transplantation to replace the damaged kidneys

What are the risk factors for Infantile nephropathic cystinosis?

1. Genetic mutation: Infantile nephropathic cystinosis is caused by a mutation in the CTNS gene, which is responsible for producing the cystinosin protein.

2. Family history: Infantile nephropathic cystinosis is an inherited disorder, so having a family history of the condition increases the risk of developing it.

3. Age: Infantile nephropathic cystinosis is most commonly diagnosed in infants and young children.

4. Ethnicity: Infantile nephropathic cystinosis is more common in people of European descent.

Is there a cure/medications for Infantile nephropathic cystinosis?

Yes, there is a medication available to treat infantile nephropathic cystinosis. The medication is called cysteamine, and it helps to reduce the amount of cystine in the body. It is usually taken orally or through a feeding tube. Additionally, there are other treatments available to help manage the symptoms of the condition, such as physical therapy, dietary changes, and medications to help with kidney function.