Mucolipidosis III alpha/beta

Mucolipidosis III (ML III) is a rare and progressive metabolic disorder that involves our body’s ability to break down certain fats (mucolipids). Symptoms typically present around age 3 and include developmental delay, joint pain, thickened skin, heart valve abnormalities, and intellectual disabilities or learning problems. Many individuals with ML III develop low bone density (osteoporosis), which causes pain and may lead to bone fractures. Heart deformities and repeated respiratory infections can reduce the individual’s ability to breathe effectively and may result in death during mid-adulthood. ML III is caused by mutation in the GNPTAB gene, and is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. Mucolipidosis III is diagnosed by testing the blood or urine for high levels of mucolipids, and the diagnosis can be confirmed by genetic testing. Treatment is focused on relieving the individual symptoms of each person.