The Healthy Living Community
Conditions

Adrenoleukodystrophy

TREATMENT

There is currently no known cure for adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD). Instead, treatment focuses on reducing symptoms.
Steroids: Patients typically receive steroids to replace the hormones that are normally produced by the adrenal glands. Patients typically receive corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone (Cortef® or Hydrocortone®), prednisone, cortisone, and dexamethasone (Decadron®, Baldex®, or Dexone®), to replace low levels of cortisol. These medications are taken once or twice a day to control hormone levels. Corticosteroids may alter blood glucose levels and should be used cautiously in diabetics. Other side effects of corticosteroids include muscle weakness, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, depression, and weight gain.
Diet: Patients should also consume a diet that is low in long chain fatty acids (avoiding foods such as butter, cream, ice cream, and fatty meats). Patients should work with their healthcare providers, nutritionists, and/or registered dietitians to plan an appropriate diet.
Lorenzo's oil: Recent evidence suggests that a substance made of oleic acid and erucic acid, called Lorenzo's oil, may help reduce or delay symptoms of X-linked ALD. Lorenzo's oil was thought to work by reducing the levels of VLCFAs in the blood. However, Lorenzo's oil is not as effective as initially believed. Researchers are performing studies to determine if modifications to Lorenzo's oil can help make this treatment more effective.
Bone marrow transplant: Researchers are currently studying bone marrow transplantation as a possible treatment for patients with X-linked ALD.

INTEGRATIVE THERAPIES

Currently, there is a lack of scientific data on the use of integrative therapies for the treatment or prevention of adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD).

PREVENTION

There are currently no known ways to prevent adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD). However, a number of treatment options exist that allow patients to manage some of the symptoms Also, genetic counseling is available to test for ALD and is recommended for those with a family history of the disease.