Alkaptonuria, also known as ochronosis, was first described by Sir Archibald Garrod in 1902.
Background of Discovery
Garrod was a British physician and biochemist who studied and treated patients suffering from alkaptonuria. He first encountered the condition in a family of three siblings, two of whom had the condition. He was able to identify the same condition in several other families and eventually was able to identify a genetic defect in the enzyme homogentisic acid oxidase, which caused the condition.
Symptoms of Alkaptonuria
Alkaptonuria is a rare genetic disorder that causes the body to accumulate homogentisic acid, which is a byproduct of the metabolism of the amino acid tyrosine. Patients with alkaptonuria experience darkening of the urine, arthritis, and other joint problems.
Treatment of Alkaptonuria
There is currently no cure for alkaptonuria, but there are treatments available to manage symptoms. Treatment usually involves medications to reduce inflammation, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Some patients may also benefit from dietary changes to reduce the amount of tyrosine in their diet.