Question

What are the inborn errors of metabolism? Explain its management.

Answer 1

Inborn errors of metabolism are rare genetic (inherited) disorders in which the body cannot properly turn food into energy. The disorders are usually caused by defects in specific proteins (enzymes) that help break down (metabolize) parts of food.

Answer 2

Approach Considerations

Goals of treatment for patients with an inborn error of metabolism (IEM) are prevention of further accumulation of harmful substances, correction of metabolic abnormalities, and elimination of toxic metabolites. Even the apparently stable patient with mild symptoms may deteriorate rapidly, with progression to death within hours. With appropriate therapy, patients may completely recover without sequelae.

Start empirical treatment for a potential inborn error of metabolism as soon as the diagnosis is considered. Treatment of patients with a known inborn error of metabolism should be disease and patient specific. Families may have treatment protocols with them developed by an IEM specialist. They may also have instructions for what resuscitation measures should be given if resuscitation is necessary. Protocols for acute illness are available on the New England Consortium of Metabolic Programs. program