Tay-Sachs Disease
By: Michael Carr, 2/9/16, Child Development
What Is Tay-Sachs Disease?
Tay-Sachs disease is a fatal genetic disorder that causes continuous destruction of the nervous system. Tay-Sachs prevents the body to make hexosaminidase. The body then cannot break down ganglioside. This causes build up in the central nervous system, not allowing it to function properly.
Cause of Tay-Sachs
Tay-Sachs disease is a recessive gene that must be passed down by both parents for the baby to acquire.
Symptoms of Tay-Sachs
Symptoms include
- Decreased muscle strength
- paralysis/loss of muscle function
- delayed social and mental development
- deafness
- blindness
Tests and Diagnosis
A blood test is all that is needed to identify carriers.
Treatment
There is no cure or treatment for Tay-Sachs disease. However, specialists can give medication for seizures and other effects. Respiratory problems can be helped by draining lungs of mucus and other fluids. Physical Therapy is used to sustain maximum flexibility in muscles and movement in joints.
Prevention
Parents can tested to see if they are carriers. If both test positive after the pregnancy has begun, an abortion is an option.
Bibliography
- Baker, Aaron J. "Tay-Sachs Disease." Genetics Home Reference. N.p., 8 Feb. 2013. Web. 11 Feb. 2016
- "Tay-Sachs Disease." Treatment at Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, 6 Sept. 2011. Web. 11 Feb. 2016
- Gibbons, Tyler S. "Tay-Sachs Disease." National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 19 Aug. 2014. Web. 11 Feb. 2016