Rapid-onset obesity with hypothalamic dysfunction, hypoventilation and autonomic dysregulation (ROHHAD)
What does this mean?
Read an article in newsday.com about a 5 year-old with ROHHAD. Rapid-onset obesity – Large weight gain in a short amount of time (15 to 20 lbs in a 6- to 12-month period with onset between 1.5 and 10 years of age.)
Hypothalamic dysfunction – When the hypothalamus does not function properly. Some symptoms include:
- Increased weight gain in short amount of time
- Hypothyroidism (causing fatigue, weight gain, hair and skin changes, cold intolerance)
- Growth hormone insufficiency
- Diabetes insipidus or innapropriate anti-diuretic hormone
- Excessive or diminished thirst due to water/salt imbalance
Hypoventilation – Breathing that is not adequate to meet the needs of the body, or reduced lung function
Autonomic dysregulation – Impairment of the autonomic nervous system
Some symptoms include:
- Altered sweating
- Decreased body temperature
- Decreased sensitivity to pain
- Cold extremities – hands and feet
- Bradycardia – decrease in heart rate
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation
How many people have ROHHAD?
This is a very rare disorder with only more than 60 cases identified by our laboratory thus far.