What diseases can result from a lack of enzymes in the body?
May 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Deficiency of enzymes in the body may lead to diseases such as hemolytic anemia, hyperlipidemia, and phenylketonuria. This is often due to the lack of specific enzymes such as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, lipoprotein lipase, or phenylalanine hydroxylase. Enzymes are essential for virtually every biological process in the body. The absence of any single enzyme can disrupt metabolism and cause abnormalities in red blood cells, leading to various physical symptoms and discomfort.
In general, enzyme deficiency in the body may lead to diseases such as hemolytic anemia, hyperlipidemia, and phenylketonuria. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Hemolytic Anemia
When the body lacks glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), it can cause hemolytic anemia. Insufficient levels of G6PD shorten the lifespan of red blood cells, increasing the risk of hemolytic anemia. Patients may take medications such as azathioprine tablets or cyclosporine soft capsules under medical supervision.
2. Hyperlipidemia
A deficiency of lipoprotein lipase disrupts lipid metabolism, potentially leading to familial hyperlipidemia. Patients can follow their doctor's instructions to use medications such as bezafibrate tablets, rosuvastatin calcium tablets, or lovastatin tablets for treatment.
3. Phenylketonuria
Phenylketonuria is a condition caused by a deficiency of phenylalanine hydroxylase. When this enzyme is lacking, the disease is more likely to manifest, resulting in symptoms such as delayed growth and intellectual development, seizures, etc. Patients may be prescribed medications like allopurinol tablets or sapropterin dihydrochloride tablets according to medical advice.
Besides the above conditions, other diseases such as favism and chronic pancreatitis may also occur. Enzymes are essential for every bodily function; once a particular enzyme is deficient, it may lead to metabolic disorders and red blood cell abnormalities. In addition to the aforementioned diseases, other conditions such as liver cysts or albinism may also develop.
