Nine cases of Alkaptonuria in one family in southern Jordan

Alkaptonuria is a rare autosomal recessive metabolic disorder characterized by a deficiency of homogentisate 1,2-dioxygenase (HGO) in the liver. This results in excretion of large quantities of homogentisic acid (HGA) (also called alkapton) in the urine and a slowly progressive deposition of homogentisic acid and its oxidative product in connective tissues. Clinical characteristic features of alkaptonuria are darkening of urine, bluish-dark pigmentation of connective tissues (ochronosis) and arthritis of large joints and spine. Cardiovascular and genitourinary systems may also be affected. In this report, we present the initial results of screening family members with history of alkaptonuria in southern region of Jordan. We present 9 cases of alkaptonuria (two males and seven females) in one Jordanian family. The history, signs and symptoms, diagnostic techniques and treatment options of alkaptonuria are reviewed in this article.