Adrenoleukodystrophy

Overview

Adrenoleukodystrophy (uh-dree-noh-loo-koh-dis-truh-fee) is a type of hereditary (genetic) condition that causes damage to the membrane surrounding nerve cells in your brain (myelin sheath). In adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), your body can't break down very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFA), causing high levels of saturated VLCFAs to build up in your brain, nervous system and adrenal gland. Read about types of adrenoleukodystrophy.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for adrenoleukodystrophy

• Experience. Mayo Clinic doctors trained in treating children who have brain and nervous system conditions (pediatric neurologists), doctors trained in brain and nervous system conditions (neurologists), and others have experience diagnosing and treating people who have adrenoleukodystrophy and other neurological conditions.
• Team approach. Mayo Clinic pediatric neurologists work with doctors trained in adrenal hormone function (endocrinologists) and others to develop the most appropriate treatment for your condition.
• Diagnostic and genetic testing. Mayo Clinic doctors conduct genetic testing and research for people who have adrenoleukodystrophy and their families. The Biochemical Genetics Laboratory at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota is one of the few facilities in the United States that performs blood tests to confirm the diagnosis of adrenoleukodystrophy.
• Treatment expertise. Mayo Clinic doctors have expertise in providing comprehensive care for children and adults who have adrenoleukodystrophy. The Mayo Clinic Peroxisomal Disorders Program at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota provides integrated care, including stem cell transplantation, for people who have all forms of ALD.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked high performing for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic also ranks among the Best Children's Hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery.

Mayo Clinic: Answers you can trust

At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution that reinvests all earnings into improving medical practice, research and education. We're constantly involved in innovation and medical research, finding solutions to improve your care and quality of life. Your doctor or someone on your medical team is likely involved in research related to your condition.

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