Penn Herb Wellness Guide

Menkes’ Disease

Also indexed as:Menkes Disease
Early diagnosis is the key to treating this rare but serious hereditary disorder. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
Menkes’ Disease: Main Image

About This Condition

Menkes’ disease is a rare hereditary disorder caused by an abnormality of copper utilization.1

Until recently, Menkes’ disease was considered universally fatal.2 However, it now appears that the severity of the disease varies from person to person.3, 4 Medical doctors often use genetic analysis5 to diagnose this disorder, even before birth.6, 7 In cases where the genetic defect appears responsive to copper therapy, early treatment is needed to minimize the severity of the physical defects that will develop later.8 Treatment can even begin before birth; while still pregnant, mothers of babies identified with Menkes’ disease can receive injections of copper histidine under the skin. Healthcare professionals, including geneticists (specialists in hereditary diseases), should be consulted in the treatment of Menkes’ disease.

Symptoms

Menkes’ disease can lead to growth retardation, white hair that has a kinky texture, and mental deterioration.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.