usually no racial difference in lesch nyhan incidence.
Lesch-Nyhan syndrome was first described in 1964 by Drs. Michael Lesch and William Nyhan. The enzyme deficiency that causes the disorder was discovered in 1967 by a researcher named Seegmiller.
males
Many patients with Lesch-Nyhan will never learn to walk. By the end of the first year, writhing motions (athetosis), and spasmodic movements of the limbs and facial muscles (chorea) are clear evidence of defective motor development
Lesch-Nyhan syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects males. Males with this syndrome develop physical handicaps, mental retardation , and kidney problems.
Lesch-Nyhan syndrome
There are no known treatments for the neurological defects of Lesch-Nyhan. The medication Allopurinol can lower blood uric acid levels. This medication does not correct many of the symptoms.
He was one of the men who discovered and researched the Lesch-Nyhan Syndrome. The Lesch-Nyhan syndrome is a syndrome inherited as a sex-linked recessive disorder. This syndrome causes you to bite your lips and fingers. So basically it causes you to start biting yourself.
Males with Lesch-Nyhan disease may also develop kidney damage due to kidney stones. Swollen and tender joints (gout) is another common problem.
At present, there are no preventive measures for Lesch-Nyhan syndrome. However, recent studies have indicated that this genetic disorder may be a good candidate for treatment with gene replacement therapy.
Symptoms of Lesch-Nyhan syndrome typically appear in infancy, when affected individuals may exhibit delays in motor skills development. By ages 3-4, self-injurious behaviors, such as biting fingers or lips, typically begin. These symptoms persist throughout life and can be managed but not cured.
At birth, males with Lesch-Nyhan syndrome appear completely normal. Development is usually normal for the first few months. Symptoms develop between three to six months of age.
It is diagnosed by measuring the activity of the HPRT enzyme through a blood test. When the activity of the enzyme is very low it is diagnostic of Lesch-Nyhan syndrome. It can also be diagnosed by DNA testing. This is also a blood test.