E71: Disorders of branched-chain amino-acid metabolism and fatty-acid metabolism

E71.3: Disorders of fatty-acid metabolism

Fatty acids have numerous functions within the body. For example, they act as energy stores in fats. Various messengers which control important processes in the body are also produced from fatty acids. Fatty acids also act as building materials in cell formation. Certain fatty acids are absorbed with food. The body can form some fatty acids itself.

There are various conditions that prevent the body from properly processing certain fatty acids. For example, with some of these conditions, certain substances accumulate in tissue and damage it. Depending on the illness, the symptoms can differ greatly. Some conditions are hereditary. Other family members may then also be affected.