Tay-Sachs disease

Tay-Sachs disease is a rare hereditary disease caused by a genetic mutation that leaves the body unable to produce an enzyme necessary for fat metabolism in nerve cells, producing central nervous system degeneration. In infants, it is characterized by progressive mental deterioration, blindness, paralysis, epileptic seizures, and death by age four. Adult-onset Tay-Sachs occurs in persons who have a genetic mutation that is similar but allows some production of the missing enzyme. There is no treatment for Tay-Sachs. A test to determine whether an infant is carrying the Tay-Sachs disease was introduced in 1969. However, work continues to be done to help find a cure. Because there is no cure for this deadly disease, genetic research is essential.