Zellweger Syndrome

Zellweger syndrome is one of a group of four related diseases called peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBD).  The diseases are caused by defects in any one of 13 genes, termed PEX genes, required for the normal formation and function of peroxisomes.  The PBDs are divided into two groups:  Zellweger spectrum disorders and Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctua spectrum.  The Zellweger spectrum is comprised of three disorders that have considerable overlap of features.  These include Zellweger syndrome (ZS, the most severe form), neonatal adrenoleukodystrophy (NALD), and Infantile Refsum disease (IRD, the least severe form).Peroxisomes are cell structures that break down toxic substances and synthesize lipids (fatty acids. oils, and waxes) that are necessary for cell function.  Peroxisomes are required for normal brain development and function and the formation of myelin, the whitish substance that coats nerve fibers.  They are also required for normal eye, liver, kidney, and bone functions.  Zellweger spectrum disorders result from dysfunctional lipid metabolism, including the over-accumulation of very long-chain fatty acids and phytanic acid, and defects of bile acids and plasmalogens--specialized lipids found in cell membranes and myelin sheaths of nerve fibers.  Symptoms of these disorders include an enlarged liver; characteristic facial features such as a high forehead, underdeveloped eyebrow ridges, and wide-set eyes; and neurological abnormalities such as cognitive impairment and seizures.  Infants will Zellweger syndrome also lack muscle tone, sometimes to the point of being unable to move, and may not be able to suck or swallow.  Some babies will be born with glaucoma, retinal degeneration, and impaired hearing.  Jaundice and gastrointestinal bleeding also may occur.

Treatment

There is no cure for Zellweger syndrome, nor is there a standard course of treatment.  Since the metabolic and neurological abnormalities that cause the symptoms of Zellweger syndrome are caused during fetal development, treatments to correct these abnormalities after birth are limited.  Most treatments are symptomatic and supportive.

Prognosis

The prognosis for infants with Zellweger syndrome is poor.  Most infants do not survive past the first 6 months, and usually succumb to respiratory distress, gastrointestinal bleeding, or liver failure.

Research

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), and other institutes of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), conduct research exploring the molecular and genetic basis of Zellweger syndrome and the other PBDs, and also support additional research through grants to major research institutions across the country.  Much of this research focuses on finding better ways to prevent, treat, and ultimately cure disorders such as Zellweger syndrome.

Organizations

National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)

National Institutes of Health, DHHS
31 Center Drive, Rm. 2A32 MSC 2425
Bethesda, MD 20892-2425
http://www.nichd.nih.gov
Tel: Bethesda
Fax: 301-496-7101

National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
Federation of voluntary health organizations dedicated to helping people with rare "orphan" diseases and assisting the organizations that serve them. Committed to the identification, treatment, and cure of rare disorders through programs of education, advocacy, research, and service.

55 Kenosia Avenue
Danbury, CT 06810
orphan@rarediseases.org
http://www.rarediseases.org
Tel: Danbury
Fax: 203-798-2291

United Leukodystrophy Foundation
Nonprofit voluntary health organization dedicated to providing patients and their families with information; assistance in identifying sources of medical care, social services, and genetic counseling; establishing a communication network among families; increasing public awareness, and acting as an information source for health care providers. Promotes supports research into causes, treatments, and prevention of the leukodystrophies.

224 North 2nd Street, Suite 2
DeKalb, IL 60115
office@ulf.org
http://www.ulf.org
Tel: DeKalb
Fax: 815-748-0844

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NINDS Disorders is an index of neurological conditions provided by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. This valuable tool offers detailed descriptions, facts on treatment and prognosis, and patient organization contact information for over 500 identified neurological disorders.

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