As with most other fatty acid oxidation disorders, individuals with MCADD need to avoid fasting for prolonged periods of time. During illnesses, they require careful management to stave off metabolic decompensation, which can result in death. Supplementation of simple carbohydrates or glucose during illness is key to prevent catabolism. The duration of fasting for individuals with MCADD varies with age, infants typically require frequent feedings or a slow release source of carbohydrates, such as uncooked cornstarch. Illnesses and other stresses can significantly reduce the fasting tolerance of affected individuals. Individuals with MCADD should have an "emergency letter" that allows medical staff who are unfamiliar with the patient and the condition to administer correct treatment properly in the event of acute decompensation. This letter should outline the steps needed to intervene in a crisis and have contact information for specialists familiar with the individual's care. Misdiagnosis issues * The MCADD disorder is commonly mistaken for Reye Syndrome by pediatricians. Reye Syndrome is a severe disorder that may develop in children while they appear to be recovering from viral infections such as chicken pox or flu. * Most cases of Reye Syndrome are associated with the use of Aspirin during these viral infections.
Medium-chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency
Short-chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency
Long-chain 3-hydroxyacyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency
Very long-chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency
Holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency
2,4 Dienoyl-CoA reductase deficiency
Systemic primary carnitine deficiency
Malonyl-CoA decarboxylase deficiency