Monogenic disorder

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Monogenic disorder is a type of genetic disorder that results from modifications in a single gene occurring in all cells of the body. Though relatively rare, they affect millions of people worldwide. Scientists currently estimate that over 10,000 of human diseases are known monogenic disorders. These disorders are also known as Mendelian disorders after the geneticist Gregor Mendel.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Monogenic disorders are caused by a mutation in a single gene. The mutation may be present on one or both chromosomes (one chromosome inherited from each parent). There are two types of monogenic disorders: dominant and recessive. Dominant disorders are caused by a mutation in one gene copy while recessive disorders are caused by mutations in both gene copies.

Types[edit | edit source]

There are several types of monogenic disorders including:

  • Cystic fibrosis: This is a recessive type of monogenic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system.
  • Sickle cell anemia: This is a recessive type of monogenic disorder that affects the red blood cells.
  • Huntington's disease: This is a dominant type of monogenic disorder that affects the nervous system.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of monogenic disorders can be challenging due to the wide range of symptoms and features that they may cause. However, they can often be diagnosed through genetic testing which can identify changes or mutations in genes.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for monogenic disorders depends on the specific disorder and the symptoms that are present. Some treatments may include dietary restrictions, medications, surgery, or physical therapy.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Monogenic disorder Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD