What is the treatment for ochronosis?
Ochronotic arthropathy is treated with physiotherapy, analgesia, rest, and prosthetic joint replacement when necessary.
Can you get rid of ochronosis?
At the present time, there are no treatments for ochronosis. Certain elimination diets may be beneficial. A referral to a specialist may be needed to discuss potential complications such as joint and heart disease.
Is there a cure for exogenous ochronosis?
Exogenous ochronosis has been largely refractory to topical agents, whereas clinical improvement has been reported after treatment with physical modalities such as dermabrasion, CO 2, and Q-switched 755-nm alexandrite laser irradiation. However, the condition remains difficult to treat.
How can homogentisic acid be reduced?
Main treatment attempts have focused on preventing ochronosis through the reduction of accumulating homogentisic acid. Such commonly recommended treatments include large doses of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) or dietary restriction of amino acids phenylalanine and tyrosine.
Can hydroquinone treat ochronosis?
Hydroquinone is the first choice of topical bleaching agents used in treatment of melasma. In Brazil, hydroquinone is widely prescribed by physicians and often used by patients without a prescription. The principal adverse effects of its chronic use are confetti-like depigmentation and exogenous ochronosis.
Can laser treat ochronosis?
Conclusion: The QS alexandrite laser can effectively treat exogenous ochronosis without untoward side effects.
What enzyme breaks down homogentisic acid?
The gene involved in alkaptonuria is the HGD gene. This provides instructions for making an enzyme called homogentisate oxidase, which is needed to break down homogentisic acid.
Is homogentisic acid an amino acid?
These two amino acids also play a role in making certain hormones, pigments, and brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Homogentisate oxidase is responsible for a specific step in the breakdown of phenylalanine and tyrosine. Previous steps convert the two amino acids into a molecule called homogentisic acid.