Definition Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare, but potentially serious, inherited disorder. Our bodies break down protein in foods like meat and fish into amino acids, which are the “building blocks” of protein. These amino acids are then used to make our own proteins. Any amino acids that aren’t needed are …

Definition Hunters syndrome is a very rare, inherited genetic disorder caused by a missing or malfunctioning enzyme. In Hunter syndrome, the body doesn’t have enough of the enzyme iduronate 2-sulfatase. This enzyme’s job is to break down certain complex molecules, and without enough of this enzyme, the molecules build up …

Definition Glucagonoma is a rare tumor involving the pancreas. Glucagon is a hormone produced by the pancreas that works with insulin to control the amount of sugar in your blood. Glucagonoma tumor cells produce large amounts of glucagon, and these high levels create severe, painful, and life-threatening symptoms. History Fewer …

Definition Gastritis is an inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the lining of the stomach. This may be caused by many factors including infection, alcohol, particular medications and some allergic and immune conditions. It can be either acute (with severe attacks lasting a day or two) or chronic (with long-term appetite …

Definition Skin tags are common, acquired benign skin growths that resemble a small, soft balloon suspended on a slender stalk. Skin tags are harmless growths that can vary in number from one to hundreds. Males and females are equally prone to developing skin tags. Obesity seems to be associated with …

Definition Ptosis is when the upper eyelid droops over the eye. The eyelid may droop just a little, or so much that it covers the pupil (the black dot at the center of your eye that lets light in). It can limit or even completely block normal vision. Children and …

Definition Progeria or  Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS) is an extremely rare genetic disorder which causes children to age rapidly. The first signs of this disorder can be seen as early as within two years of life of the child. When born, children with Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome appear normal without any …

Definition Porphyria are a group of rare inherited blood disorders. People with these disorders do not make heme, a component of hemoglobin (protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen) properly. Heme is made of porphyrin (a naturally-occurring organic compound in the body) bound to iron. Heme helps red blood …