Familial Dysautonomia (FD)

Familial dysautonomia (FD), also referred to as Riley-Day syndrome, is a genetic disorder which is characterized by poor growth, erratic blood pressure, and inability to produce tears. Moreover, those with FD have difficulties in swallowing, speaking, moving, and sensing pain, heat, and taste. They also usually have gastrointestinal dysmotility, pneumonia, and experience recurrent vomiting. This disorder is attributed to a gene mutation particularly on the 9th chromosome. Unfortunately, there is presently no cure for FD and half of affected individuals die by age 30.