Familial dysautonomia

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Familial dysautonomia

Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a rare genetic disease caused by abnormal development of the nervous system. People with FD have problems feeling pain and heat, may have problems with balance and swallowing, and are unable to regulate their body temperature and blood pressure.

Symptoms of FD include severe eye problems, feeding difficulties, and poor weight gain because of a weak suck reflex. Pneumonia may occur when uncoordinated swallowing allows breast milk or formula into the lungs.

Other common symptoms include lack of coordination, inability to feel pain, excessive sweating, and developmental delays in speech and motor skills. Many children have stunted growth and curvature of the spine (scoliosis).

FD is treated with surgery to help maintain nutrition and prevent pneumonia. Medications are used to control vomiting, eye dryness, and blood pressure.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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