Lesch-Nyhan syndrome

Definition

Lesch-Nyhan syndrome is an inheritable disorder that affects how the body builds and breaks down purines. Purines are units in RNA and DNA, which make up the body's genetic blueprint.

Causes

Lesch-Nyhan syndrome is inherited as an X-linked trait. Therefore, the disease is seen mainly in males. It is characterized by increased blood and uric acid levels and by the absence of the enzyme hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGP).

Males with Lesch-Nyhan have delayed motor development followed by bizarre, sinuous movements and increased deep tendon reflexes. A striking feature of Lesch-Nyhan syndrome is self-destructive behavior characterized by chewing off fingertips and lips, if not restrained.

The excess uric acid levels cause children to develop gout-like swelling in some of their joints. In some cases, renal dysfunction develops because of the excess uric acid levels.