Further Inpatient Care
- If treatment for alkaptonuria is successful, the patient does not need to be admitted.
Further Outpatient Care
- Carefully monitor diet with periodic measurement of plasma amino acid levels to avoid phenylalanine deficiency.
Inpatient & Outpatient Medications
- Medications are not needed, although large doses of supplemental vitamin C may be beneficial.
Transfer
- Transfer is not required if appropriate outpatient consultation and follow-up are obtained.
Deterrence/Prevention
- High-protein diets should be avoided.
- No exercise restriction is necessary in the absence of cardiovascular disease.
Complications
- Calcification of the ear cartilage
- Calcified lumbar discs
- Severe arthritis
- Ankylosis
- Aortic or mitral valvulitis
Prognosis
- Life expectancy is normal.
- Risk of myocardial infarction later in life is increased.
Patient Education
- Family members should be referred for genetic counseling.
- The need for rigorous follow-up with a biochemical geneticist should be emphasized.
- For excellent patient education resources, visit eMedicine's Arthritis Center.
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