Tag

Genetic Disorder

All articles tagged with #genetic disorder

Normal for 18 months, then Rett syndrome: a family's long road to a diagnosis
health24 days ago

Normal for 18 months, then Rett syndrome: a family's long road to a diagnosis

A father recounts how his daughter appeared perfectly normal for the first 18 months, then rapidly regressed in speech and motor skills, leading to a long diagnostic journey that culminated in Rett syndrome in October 2022; after initial ER visits and a misdiagnosis of autism, genetic testing confirmed Rett, and now five-year-old Talia receives multiple therapies with the family hopeful for FDA-approved treatment and continued support.

Community Efforts and Advances in Sickle Cell Disease Awareness and Support
health5 months ago

Community Efforts and Advances in Sickle Cell Disease Awareness and Support

The article tells the story of Aiden-Jon Amir Hall, a young boy with sickle cell anaemia who passed away at age five, and his mother Latoya Minott Smikle's efforts to raise awareness and funds through the Aiden-Jon Amir Hall Foundation to support others affected by the disease, highlighting the challenges faced by families and the need for greater resources and support.

Living with a Rare Condition: The Threat of Internal Melting
health1 year ago

Living with a Rare Condition: The Threat of Internal Melting

Kayley, a 20-year-old college student from Tennessee, suffers from Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS), a rare genetic disorder that weakens connective tissue, leading to severe health issues like aneurysms and heart defects. Despite the condition's low life expectancy and numerous surgeries, Kayley remains optimistic and focused on living life to the fullest. She describes her condition as 'The Melting Disorder' due to the weakened state of her body's connective tissues, which affects her organs and skeletal system.

NC Senator Faces Backlash for 'Move to China' Abortion Comment
politics1 year ago

NC Senator Faces Backlash for 'Move to China' Abortion Comment

A North Carolina senator's office is under scrutiny after a constituent received an email suggesting she "move to China" following her concerns about the state's abortion policy. The woman, who has a genetic disorder affecting fetal health, criticized the restrictive laws, prompting an unprofessional response from Senator Danny Britt's assistant. The incident gained attention on TikTok, sparking backlash over the insensitivity of the reply. The woman seeks clarity and compassion from her representatives regarding abortion laws, which she argues are forcing people to seek care out of state.

"New Genetic Disorder Linked to Intellectual Disability Identified"
health-and-science1 year ago

"New Genetic Disorder Linked to Intellectual Disability Identified"

A new study published in Nature Medicine identifies mutations in the RNU4-2 gene as a likely cause of many unexplained cases of intellectual disability. The gene, crucial for gene splicing, when mutated, can disrupt brain development, leading to intellectual disabilities. The findings could help update genetic tests and provide diagnoses for many families. The study estimates the condition affects up to 1 in 20,000 young people, though its prevalence in older adults is unknown. Researchers emphasize the significance of the discovery, though treatment options remain distant.

"Existing Drug Offers Hope for Rare Genetic Disorder"
health1 year ago

"Existing Drug Offers Hope for Rare Genetic Disorder"

NIH researchers have found that ruxolitinib, a drug approved for certain autoimmune diseases and cancers, can alleviate symptoms of autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type 1 (APS-1), a rare genetic disorder. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed that elevated levels of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) are linked to APS-1, and ruxolitinib helps normalize these levels, reducing symptoms in both mice and human participants. Further research with a larger patient group is needed to confirm these findings.

"White Line on Nails: Hidden Kidney Cancer Risk"
health1 year ago

"White Line on Nails: Hidden Kidney Cancer Risk"

New research from the NIH suggests that faint white lines on fingernails could indicate a rare genetic condition, BAP1 tumor predisposition syndrome, which increases the risk of various cancers, including kidney, skin, and eye cancers. The study found that 88% of people with this genetic disorder had abnormal nail markings, such as a thin white line running the length of the nail, often associated with benign tumors. This condition affects fewer than 100 American families and is linked to more aggressive and early-onset cancers.

"Rare Six-Legged Gazelle Sighted in Israel"
wildlife1 year ago

"Rare Six-Legged Gazelle Sighted in Israel"

A rare six-legged mountain gazelle has been discovered in Israel, with an extra pair of legs due to a genetic abnormality. Despite this, the gazelle seems to be managing well and has even sired offspring. The animal's condition is attributed to a rare genetic disorder called polymelia, and it is the first known instance of this disorder in a mountain gazelle in the Middle East. Mountain gazelles are a protected species in Israel, with only around 5,000 remaining in the wild, and they can also be found in other parts of the region.

"Unprecedented Sighting: Six-Legged Gazelle Discovered in Israel"
wildlife1 year ago

"Unprecedented Sighting: Six-Legged Gazelle Discovered in Israel"

A rare six-legged mountain gazelle has been spotted in Israel's Nahal HaBasor reserve, with an extra pair of legs due to a genetic disorder called polymelia. Despite the abnormality, the gazelle seems to be managing well and has even sired offspring. This is the first known instance of polymelia in a mountain gazelle in the Middle East, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation efforts for this endangered species.

Uncovering the Genetic Condition Increasing Cancer Risk
health2 years ago

Uncovering the Genetic Condition Increasing Cancer Risk

Lynch syndrome is a little-known genetic disorder that significantly increases the risk of various cancers, including colon and colorectal cancer, but is often undiagnosed due to its lack of symptoms. It can be detected through genetic testing and requires close monitoring through regular screenings, especially colonoscopies, for those who test positive. A clinical trial for a new cancer vaccine targeting Lynch syndrome patients is underway, with the potential to extend to other types of cancers if successful. Patients are advised to discuss their family history with their primary care doctors and consider genetic testing for early detection and prevention.

"Rare Genetic Disorder Leaves Baby Girl Born Without Eyes, Stuns Missouri Parents"
health-human-interest2 years ago

"Rare Genetic Disorder Leaves Baby Girl Born Without Eyes, Stuns Missouri Parents"

A couple's joy turned to shock when their baby, Wrenley Ice, was born without eyes due to a rare genetic disorder called haploinsufficiency of PRR12. The condition, affecting less than 30 people worldwide, also impacts Wrenley's development. The parents, Taylor and Robert Ice, are determined to support their daughter and have opened up about her condition. Wrenley will require surgery to unfuse her eyelids and will eventually receive glass eyes. Despite the challenges, the family remains hopeful and grateful for their daughter.