What causes MCADD?

MCADD is caused bya fault in the gene that provides the instructionsto make anenzyme called medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD).

This genetic faultcausesthe enzymeto either not work properly or be missing entirely, which means the body cannot fully break down fat to release energy.

If the body needs to break down fat quickly (for example, if you're unwell and haven't eaten for a while), energy cannot be produced quickly enough to meet the body's needs and substances created when fat is partially broken down can build up to harmful levels in the body.

This can lead to serious problems if not treated quickly.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018