Medium Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency (MCADD) in the Irish Paediatric Population

Z Mesbah1, K Sing Ho1, P Fitzsimons2

  • 1The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.

Irish Medical Journal
|April 21, 2020
PubMed

Insights

The incidence of Medium Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency (MCADD) in Ireland is 1:71650, lower than global estimates. Early diagnosis and newborn screening are crucial for this treatable condition to prevent mortality.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Genetics
  • Epidemiology
  • Metabolic Disorders

Background:

  • Medium Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency (MCADD) is a genetic disorder affecting fatty acid metabolism.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent severe outcomes, including mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the disease frequency and epidemiological characteristics of MCADD in the Irish pediatric population.
  • To assess the current diagnostic and mortality landscape of MCADD in Ireland.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of MCADD cases in children (<18 years) from 1998 to 2016.
  • Utilized data from the National Centre for Inherited Metabolic Disorders and Temple Street Children's University Hospital.
  • Calculated incidence and mortality rates using Central Statistics Office population data.

Main Results:

  • Identified 17 pediatric cases of MCADD from 1998-2016, with an incidence of 1:71,650.
  • Observed a mean age at presentation of 1.48 years, and a mortality rate of 15.38% prior to diagnosis.
  • The common c.985A>G mutation was present in 88% of alleles; no deaths occurred post-diagnosis.

Conclusions:

  • MCADD incidence in Ireland is lower than previously estimated global figures.
  • Under-ascertainment and delayed diagnosis pose risks for this treatable condition.
  • The study supports the inclusion of MCADD in the National Newborn Bloodspot Screening Program.

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