Homogentisic acid oxidase deficiency, or alkaptonuria, is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the body's inability to break down the amino acid homogentisic acid. It is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme homogentisic acid oxidase. Common symptoms of the disorder include darkening of the urine, darkening of the connective tissues, and the development of arthritis.
Urine discoloration is the most common symptom of homogentisic acid oxidase deficiency. As homogentisic acid builds up in the body, it is excreted in the urine, causing it to darken to a brown or black color. This discoloration is particularly noticeable when the urine is exposed to light or air.
Another symptom of the disorder is the darkening of the connective tissues, such as the sclera, cartilage, and skin. Over time, the homogentisic acid accumulates in these tissues, causing them to become brittle and turn a dark brown or black color. In severe cases, the sclera can become so darkened that the eyes appear black.
Finally, homogentisic acid oxidase deficiency can lead to the development of arthritis. As the homogentisic acid accumulates in the joints, it causes them to become inflamed and painful. This inflammation can lead to a decrease in joint mobility and the development of osteoarthritis.
In conclusion, homogentisic acid oxidase deficiency is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the body's inability to break down homogentisic acid. Common symptoms of the disorder include urine discoloration, darkening of the connective tissues, and the development of arthritis.