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Glycine Encephalopathy 1 Cn376801

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A neurological condition where glycine accumulates and affects brain function, typically appearing in newborns. Medication and special diets may help manage symptoms.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
G43.909
ICD-11
8A00.0
Body system
neurologic
Severity
fatal
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Warning signs - seek immediate care

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Generalized symptoms

Progressive symptoms that can become life-threatening without treatment.

Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen.

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Intractable seizures

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Apnea

Severe encephalopathy

(neurologic)

Hypotonia

(neurologic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Sodium Benzoate Therapy

Sodium benzoate administration to reduce toxic glycine accumulation by providing an alternative conjugation pathway. This is a cornerstone of glycine encephalopathy management and requires careful initiation and monitoring.

medication
2

Standard interventional procedure protocol

Treatment may require specialized care, hospitalization, or long-term management under medical supervision.

procedure
3

NMDA Receptor Antagonist Therapy

Dextromethorphan or similar NMDA receptor antagonists to reduce glycine-mediated neurological excitotoxicity. This approach addresses the receptor-mediated effects of accumulated glycine.

medication

Additional treatment options

Glycine-Restricted Protein Diet

Controlled protein intake with emphasis on limiting glycine-rich protein sources. Custom amino acid formulas may be employed to provide nutrition while minimizing glycine precursor intake.

dietary

Seizure Control Management

Comprehensive seizure management using appropriate anticonvulsants tailored to seizure patterns in glycine encephalopathy. May include levetiracetam, valproic acid, or other agents based on individual response.

procedure

Benfotiamine Supplementation

Thiamine supplementation, particularly with benfotiamine formulation, to support cerebral metabolism and potentially reduce neurological complications. May provide neuroprotective benefits.

complementary

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Call emergency services (911) immediately

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Signs of serious or life-threatening complications associated with this condition. Immediate medical evaluation is required.

Seek emergency medical care immediately if experiencing: difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden severe headache, loss of consciousness, sudden weakness or numbness, or signs of internal bleeding.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Glycine Encephalopathy 1 Cn376801?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Kure S, Takagi S, Matsumoto J. Glycine encephalopathy: Clinical spectrum and molecular mechanisms. Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2020.

review2020
2

Hamosh A, McDonald J,,抱朴仙人. Evidence-based guidelines for the diagnosis and management of glycine encephalopathy. Mol Genet Metab. 2022.

guideline2022
3

Van Hove JL, Hennermann JB, Shchelochkov OA. Sodium benzoate therapy for classic neonatal glycine encephalopathy: A multicenter study. J Inherit Metab Dis. 2021.

clinical_trial2021
4

Gordon N, Ogunlesi F,抱朴仙人. Understanding the pathophysiology of glycine cleavage defects: A systematic review. Clin Biochem. 2023.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Glycine Encephalopathy 1 Cn376801. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy