Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the nervous system, adrenal gland and white blood cell production. It is a progressive disorder, meaning that it gets worse over time. Here are some interesting facts about ALD:
1. ALD is a X-linked genetic disorder, meaning that the gene that causes the disorder is located on the X chromosome. This means that it is more common in males than in females.
2. ALD affects roughly 1 in 18,000 people, though this number may be higher due to undiagnosed cases.
3. ALD is caused by mutations in the ABCD1 gene, which codes for a protein called adrenoleukodystrophy protein (ALDP).
4. ALD is divided into three forms: childhood cerebral form, which affects the central nervous system; adrenomyeloneuropathy, which affects the peripheral nerves, and the Addison disease form, which affects the adrenal glands.
5. ALD can be diagnosed through a genetic test.
6. Treatment for ALD is available, though it is expensive and not always effective.
7. There is a form of ALD called “adrenoleukodystrophy-like disorder”, which is caused by mutations in other genes, not the ABCD1 gene.
8. In rare cases, ALD can be inherited from a parent, but most cases are not inherited.
9. ALD has been featured in a number of movies and TV shows, including Lorenzo’s Oil and The Fault in Our Stars.
10. ALD is a life-threatening disorder, and the life expectancy of those affected is usually less than 10 years.