What is AKU?
Alkaptonuria (AKU) is caused by a missing enzyme, which means that the body cannot break down a substance known as homogentisic acid. This then accumulates in the body at more then 2,000 time the normal rate, eventually leading to severely disabling health problems.
Some people with Alkaptonuria may not know that they have the disease until they start to suffer from symptoms such as chronic pain in their back or joints. Others may be diagnosed at an early age, but not fully understand the implications. Either way, Alkaptonuria is like a time bomb: a disease for which there is no cure, and which sooner or later will make it impossible for sufferers to lead a normal life.
To read testimonies from AKU patients who live with the disease every day, click here.
To read our latest brochure, click here.
For an in depth look at Alkaptonuria by the National Institutes of Health, click here.
To read a review of AKU on Rare Disease India, click here.
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To see the most common symptoms of AKU, click here.
For proposed treatments, click here.