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Hartnup disorder

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Treatment:

• Supplements containing nicotinamide are often the main treatment. This can effectively treat the rash, and can sometimes treat the uncoordination and psychiatric symptoms.
• A high protein diet is recommended.
• Avoiding sun exposure by wearing protective clothing and using a sunscreen of 15 factor or higher is recommended.
• Psychiatric treatment, such as the use of antidepressants or mood stabilizers, may be needed if mood swings or psychiatric problems occur.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most people with this disorder can expect a normal lifespan with no disability. Rarely, there have been reports of severe bouts of neurologic disease and even deaths in families with this disorder.

Complications:

There are usually no complications. The minority of people who develop symptoms can experience rash, uncoordinated movements, and, less frequently, psychiatric symptoms.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms suggestive of this condition, particularly if you have a family history of Hartnup disorder. Genetic counseling is recommended if you have a family history of this condition and are planning a pregnancy.

• Review Date: 8/11/2006
• Reviewed By: Brian Kirmse, MD, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Department of Human Genetics, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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