APECED is a genetic disease that affects the immune system, causing frequent infections and specific symptoms involving glands and skin. There is no cure, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and replacing hormones. It affects Finns, Iranian Jews, and Sardinians more than other races.
APECED stands for polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-autoimmune ectodermal dystrophy. This disease prevents the human body’s immune system from fighting infections. APECED is a genetically inherited disease affecting Finns, Iranian Jews and Sardinians more than any other race. APECED can be identified by its many specific symptoms involving the glands and skin.
The first and most common symptom of APECED is hypoparathyroidism. This symptom causes a decrease in the level of calcium in the blood and causes tingling in the tips of the fingers, lips and toes. Other signs of hypoparathyroidism include dry skin, hair and nails. While hypoparathyroidism can be caused by a number of different health problems, it is one of the main symptoms used to diagnose the presence of APECED.
Another symptom of APECED is frequent yeast infections. Although this type of infection is most commonly associated with women, men with APECED are also affected. Yeast infections can occur in the mouth and groin area, as well as the vagina. Many people experience yeast infections from time to time, but recurring yeast infections are often a symptom of an autoimmune disease such as APECED.
Adrenal insufficiency is the third most common symptom of APECED. The adrenal glands are above the kidneys. They are responsible for producing steroids that regulate organs and help the body process sodium and potassium. A person suffering from adrenal insufficiency may experience frequent thirst, weakness and muscle fatigue.
There are specific symptoms that indicate APECED in children. The most obvious symptom in children includes problems with many glands in the body. The adrenal and sex glands are affected with obvious symptoms causing physical problems such as underdeveloped testicles and baldness. Infants and children with APECED can also develop frequent infections and inflammation of the cornea and whites of the eye. Children with APECED will also have underdeveloped tooth enamel which can lead to pain and frequent tooth decay.
APECED is a genetically inherited disease and there is no cure available as of 2010. Current treatment for APECED involves treating the symptoms of the disease. Doctors most often work with patients to treat infections and replace hormones that are inhibited by malfunctioning glands. A diagnosis of APECED is not a death sentence, but treating the symptoms of the disorder is critical to maintaining quality of life. For this reason, most people diagnosed with APECED stay in close contact with a family doctor or specialist.
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