Hartnup disorder

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Overview

Symptoms

Treatment

Prevention

Hartnup disorder

Treatment:

Supplements containing nicotinamide are often the main treatment. This can effectively treat the rash, and can sometimes treat the uncoordination and psychiatric symptoms.
A high protein diet is recommended.
Avoiding sun exposure by wearing protective clothing and using a sunscreen of 15 factor or higher is recommended.
Psychiatric treatment, such as the use of antidepressants or mood stabilizers, may be needed if mood swings or psychiatric problems occur.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most people with this disorder can expect a normal lifespan with no disability. Rarely, there have been reports of severe bouts of neurologic disease and even deaths in families with this disorder.

Complications:

There are usually no complications. The minority of people who develop symptoms can experience rash, uncoordinated movements, and less frequently psychiatric symptoms.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms suggestive of this condition, particularly if you have a family history of Hartnup disorder. Genetic counseling is recommended if you have a family history of this condition and are planning a pregnancy.

Review Date: 7/26/2004
Reviewed By: Douglas R. Stewart, M.D., Division of Medical Genetics, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.