What is Alkaptonuria (AKU)?
Alkaptonuria, also known as AKU or Black Bone Disease, is an extremely rare genetic condition, which can cause significant damage to the bones, cartilage and tissues of those affected. AKU normally only affects one in every 250,000 people worldwide. AKU is a recessive condition that is caused by a mutation of one chromosome, this means that if two people carry the faulty gene, their child still only has a 25% chance of developing AKU.
AKU stops patients’ bodies from breaking down a chemical called homogentisic acid (HGA) which the body naturally produces during the digestion of food. Due to this, HGA builds up in the body and, over time, leads to black and brittle bones and cartilage, and early onset osteoarthritis. The build up of HGA in the body can also lead to other, sometimes more serious health complications.
A Rare Disease Explained is a YouTube by Denise Higgins. She explains a little about the disease and her experience. Running time is about one minute.
Learn About AKU! Patients with AKU often struggle to get a diagnosis. We want to educate doctors to improve diagnosis rates and local care. This is why we have created a free, accredited, online learning module with the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP). It is all about AKU, and focuses on diagnosis and care. We need you to spread the word, and tell your doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals about the module. Although it is aimed at GPs, anyone can take the module for free to learn about AKU. This means you can take it too! With this link.