A metabolic disorder is a disorder that negatively alters the body's processing and distribution of
macronutrients, such as
proteins,
fats, and
carbohydrates. Metabolic disorders can happen when abnormal chemical reactions in the body alter the normal
metabolic process.[3] It can also be defined as inherited single gene anomaly, most of which are
autosomal recessive.[4]
Signs and symptoms
Some of the symptoms that can occur with metabolic disorders are
lethargy,
weight loss,
jaundice and
seizures. The symptoms expressed would vary with the type of metabolic disorder. There are four categories of symptoms: acute symptoms, late-onset acute symptoms, progressive general symptoms and permanent symptoms.[5]
Inherited metabolic disorders are one cause of metabolic disorders, and occur when a defective gene causes an
enzyme deficiency.[6] These diseases, of which there are many subtypes, are known as inborn errors of metabolism.[7] Metabolic diseases can also occur when the
liver or
pancreas do not function properly.[3]
Types
The principal classes of metabolic disorders are:[1]
Metabolic disorders can be present at birth, and many can be identified by routine screening. If a metabolic disorder is not identified early, then it may be diagnosed later in life, when symptoms appear. Specific blood and DNA tests can be done to diagnose genetic metabolic disorders.[2]
The
gut microbiota, which is a population of
microbes that live in the
human digestive system, also has an important part in metabolism and generally has a positive function for its host. In terms of pathophysiological/mechanism interactions, an abnormal gut microbiota can play a role in metabolic disorder related
obesity.[8]
Metabolic disorders can be treatable by nutrition management, especially if detected early. It is important for dieticians to have knowledge of the genotype to create a treatment that will be more effective for the individual.[10]