Loeys-Dietz syndrome, the prevalence of which is not known, is a connective tissue disorder that drastically decreases your lifespan. Researchers with Antwerp University Hospital in Belgium and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Maryland estimate mean age of death with this disorder to be 26.1 years of age. Certain vitamin deficiencies are common when you have Loeys-Dietz syndrome, which can complicate your disease.
About Loeys-Dietz Syndrome
An article in the February 2008 issue of "Gene Reviews" indicates that most people who suffer from Loeys-Dietz syndrome have LDS type 1, which presents with cleft palate, abnormal skull growth and abnormally wide-spaced eyes. One-quarter of Loeys-Dietz suffers have LDS type 2, characterized by translucent and easily bruised skin and wide, sunken scars. Both types of Loeys-Dietz syndrome are life threatening because of the occurrence of aggressive heart aneurysms and pregnancy complications. If you have Loeys-Dietz syndrome, your physician will advise you to avoid contact sports and any activity that can result in a joint injury or pain, as well as any medications that can stimulate the heart.
Loeys-Dietz Syndrome and Vitamin Deficiencies
Some people with Loeys-Dietz syndrome suffer from gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel disease and Crohn’s disease. These conditions can cause a range of vitamin deficiencies because the intestine is not adequately absorbing nutrients. Discuss your latest blood work with your physician, as deficiencies in vitamin B-12, folate and vitamin D are common. You may also suffer from an iron deficiency.
Loeys-Dietz Syndrome and Vitamin D
Because skeletal problems may present as part of Loeys-Dietz syndrome, a vitamin D deficiency can be quite dangerous. A study published in the April 2010 issue of the "American Journal of Medical Genetics" indicates that skeletal fragility in Loeys-Dietz syndrome sufferers can lead to early osteoporosis and osteopenia. Vitamin D helps your body efficiently absorb calcium, a mineral that helps promote bone density. Foods that are rich in vitamin D include salmon, mackerel and milk. Your doctor may recommended supplements.
Misdiagnosis
Loeys-Dietz syndrome is often misdiagnosed as Marfan's syndrome, a connective tissue disorder than impacts your eyes, heart, skeleton and blood vessels. Both Loeys-Dietz and Marfan's are inherited diseases; there are no possible preventative measures, but if someone in your family suffers with either condition, genetic testing is advisable.
References
- Gene Reviews; Loeys-Dietz Syndrome; B.L. Loeys and H.C. Dietz
- Thoractic Aortic Disease Coalition: Loeys-Dietz Syndrome
- NHS Choices: Anaemia, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency - Causes
- Harvard University: Iron Deficiency
- ScienceDaily: Vitamin D Supplements Could Fight Crohn's Disease
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin D
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