Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD)

Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) is a hereditary disorder mostly found in males. In adrenoleukodystrophy, the myelin sheath that insulates nerve cells and the adrenal glands deteriorate because a certain type of fatty acid can't be broken down properly. This buildup is irreversible and the condition is gradual and deadly. If caught early in childhood, progression may be slowed with treatments such as using stem cells from bone marrow transplants. In many cases, treatment is focused on symptom relief such as reducing muscle stiffness and seizures.