Definition:
APECED Syndrome (APS1) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the autoimmune system. It is characterized by several other defects that cause a malfunction of the endocrine glands. APECED stands for Autoimmune Polyendocrinoptahy, Candidiasis, and Ectodermal Dysplasia.
Diagnosis:
The disease can be diagnosed via the symptoms present in the patient. Genetic testing is also performed to detect the genetic defects.
Treatment:
Treatment is done in response to the affected organs. Multi-drug therapies are given to help reduce the effects of the disorders.
Symptoms and Signs:
The symptoms that indicate that one has APECED syndrome are hypoparathyrodism, mucocutaneous candidiasis, and autoimmune adrenal insufficiency. The symptoms begin to develop during childhood, and start to be prevalent during the patient’s adulthood.
Causes:
APECED syndrome is a manifestation of other autoimmune disorders such as diabetes milletus.
