Treatment:

Treatments include:

• Avoiding sun exposure by wearing protective clothing and using a sunscreen of factor 15 or higher
• Eating a high-protein diet
• Taking supplements containing nicotinamide
• Undergoing psychiatric treatment, such as the use of antidepressants or mood stabilizers, if mood swings or psychiatric problems occur

Expectations (prognosis):

Most people with this disorder can expect to live a normal life with no disability. Rarely, there have been reports of severe nervous system disease and even deaths in families with this disorder.

Complications:

There are usually no complications. When they occur, complications may include:

• Changes in skin pigment that are permanent
• Psychiatric problems
• Rash
• Uncoordinated movements

Nervous system symptoms are usually reversible. However, in rare cases they can be severe or life-threatening.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of this condition, especially 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.