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What is Abetalipoproteinemia?

Dee Saale
Dee Saale
Dee Saale
Dee Saale

Abetalipoproteinemia, also known as Bassen-Kornzweig syndrome, is a condition where the organs of the body are unable to absorb fats, fat-soluble vitamins (like E, A, D, and K), and cholesterol from the diet. An individual with the condition does not have a specific kind of lipoprotein called a beta-lipoprotein which aids with the absorption process. Certain amounts of fats, vitamins, and cholesterol are important for healthy development and growth – without them developmental problems will occur.

People who have inherited abetalipoproteinemia have noticeable symptoms when they are only a few months old. Symptoms can include the inability to put on weight; diarrhea; fatty, frothy, rank-smelling stools; a bloated abdomen; and oddly-shaped red blood cells. As these individuals age, there may be problems with their nervous system, muscle coordination troubles, slurred speech, curvature of the spine, poor vision, and difficulties with movement and balance. Many of the symptoms of abetalipoproteinemia are the result of the lack of absorption of vitamins, particularly vitamin E.

Genetic testing of abetalipoproteinemia is available, so preventative measures can be taken.
Genetic testing of abetalipoproteinemia is available, so preventative measures can be taken.

There are very few reported cases of abetalipoproteinemia. It is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder where mutations affect the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) gene. This means that a person affected with abetalipoproteinemia has parents that each have one copy of the mutated MTTP gene. So, the parents do not have any symptoms that they are carriers of the disorder, but the children do.

Stool samples that are collected at home are usually placed into plastic containers.
Stool samples that are collected at home are usually placed into plastic containers.

There are some tests that can help determine whether an individual has abetalipoproteinemia. Apolipoprotein B blood test will determine the lipid levels. In addition, other blood tests can check to see if there are any fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies. A stool sample analysis, cholesterol test, and eye exam may also be performed. Treatment includes the use vitamin and linoleic acid supplements and limited fat and long-chain triglyceride intake.

Individuals suffering from abetalipoproteinemia may experience diarrhea and abdominal bloating.
Individuals suffering from abetalipoproteinemia may experience diarrhea and abdominal bloating.

Genetic testing of abetalipoproteinemia may be available, so prevention of deterioration is possible. In those cases, high quantities of fat-soluble vitamins may decrease the progression, particularly for vision-related problems. Plus, when supplements are taken, the prognosis is good. However, in its most severe form, some affected individuals may suffer from irreversible damage to their nervous system before they reach the age of 30. Complications can include blindness, damage to nerves, and deterioration of the individual’s mental ability.

Although it is rare, there is increasing interest in the disorder. The Abetalipoproteinemia Collaboration Foundation began in January 2007. Its goal is to globally link and set up an international support group for those affected with abetalipoproteinemia, their families, doctors, and scientists.

Dee Saale
Dee Saale

Dee is a freelance writer based in Colorado. She has a B.A. in English Literature, as well as a law degree. Dee is especially interested in topics relating to medicine, legal issues, and home improvement, which are her specialty when contributing to WiseGEEK.

Learn more...
Dee Saale
Dee Saale

Dee is a freelance writer based in Colorado. She has a B.A. in English Literature, as well as a law degree. Dee is especially interested in topics relating to medicine, legal issues, and home improvement, which are her specialty when contributing to WiseGEEK.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

SteamLouis

My cousin's daughter, Ashley, has this condition and it took some time for her to be diagnosed. Since it's so rare, most doctors are not too familiar with abetalipoproteinemia or don't really think of it when they see the symptoms.

Ashley was initially diagnosed with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) because she didn't want to eat and when she did, she would throw up or get diarrhea. She was treated for GERD for quite a while but when her condition didn't get any better, she was finally given an endoscopy. The endoscopy biopsy showed that Ashley cannot absorb fats and that's why she was getting sick.

It's been one year since her diagnosis and she's doing very well. She has a specific diet and gets her vitamin supplements regularly and is growing well.

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    • Genetic testing of abetalipoproteinemia is available, so preventative measures can be taken.
      By: lily
      Genetic testing of abetalipoproteinemia is available, so preventative measures can be taken.
    • Stool samples that are collected at home are usually placed into plastic containers.
      By: luchschen_shutter
      Stool samples that are collected at home are usually placed into plastic containers.
    • Individuals suffering from abetalipoproteinemia may experience diarrhea and abdominal bloating.
      By: inesbazdar
      Individuals suffering from abetalipoproteinemia may experience diarrhea and abdominal bloating.