Dopamine beta hydroxylase deficiency

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A rare genetic disorder affecting catecholamine synthesis


Dopamine beta hydroxylase deficiency
Synonyms DβH deficiency, Norepinephrine deficiency
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Field Neurology, Endocrinology, Medical genetics
Symptoms Orthostatic hypotension, ptosis, nasal congestion, exercise intolerance, hypoglycemia
Complications Risk of fainting, developmental delay, poor temperature regulation
Onset Neonatal or early infancy
Duration Lifelong
Types
Causes Mutations in the DBH gene leading to absent or inactive dopamine beta-hydroxylase enzyme
Risks Consanguinity, autosomal recessive inheritance
Diagnosis Measurement of catecholamine levels (high dopamine, low norepinephrine), genetic testing for DBH mutation
Differential diagnosis Familial dysautonomia, multiple system atrophy, pure autonomic failure
Prevention None
Treatment Supportive care, droxidopa (a synthetic norepinephrine precursor), fludrocortisone, midodrine
Medication Droxidopa, fludrocortisone, midodrine
Prognosis Variable; manageable with treatment, but chronic symptoms often persist
Frequency Extremely rare (less than 100 cases reported worldwide)
Deaths Rare, usually related to severe hypotension or complications from autonomic dysfunction


Dopamine beta-hydroxylase deficiency is a rare genetic disorder that affects the synthesis of catecholamines, which are important neurotransmitters in the nervous system. This condition is characterized by a deficiency in the enzyme dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DBH), which is responsible for converting dopamine to norepinephrine.

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

Dopamine beta-hydroxylase deficiency results from mutations in the DBH gene, which encodes the enzyme responsible for the conversion of dopamine to norepinephrine. This enzyme is crucial for the production of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in the autonomic nervous system and the regulation of blood pressure. Without sufficient DBH activity, individuals have elevated levels of dopamine and reduced levels of norepinephrine and epinephrine.

Clinical Features[edit | edit source]

The clinical presentation of dopamine beta-hydroxylase deficiency can vary, but common symptoms include:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of dopamine beta-hydroxylase deficiency is based on clinical symptoms, biochemical tests, and genetic testing. Key diagnostic indicators include:

  • Elevated plasma dopamine levels.
  • Low or undetectable plasma norepinephrine and epinephrine levels.
  • Genetic testing to identify mutations in the DBH gene.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for dopamine beta-hydroxylase deficiency focuses on managing symptoms and may include:

  • Droxidopa, a synthetic amino acid that can be converted to norepinephrine, is often used to alleviate symptoms of orthostatic hypotension.
  • Fludrocortisone may be prescribed to help increase blood volume and blood pressure.
  • Dietary modifications and increased salt intake to help manage blood pressure.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for individuals with dopamine beta-hydroxylase deficiency varies depending on the severity of symptoms and the effectiveness of treatment. With appropriate management, many individuals can lead relatively normal lives, although they may need ongoing treatment to manage symptoms.

Related pages[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD