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Severe Zellweger Spectrum Disorder Zellweger Syndrome Cn381138

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

A severe genetic disorder affecting how cells process fatty acids and other molecules. Infants show profound developmental delays, distinctive facial features, and organ dysfunction. Most affected children do not survive beyond the first year of life.

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

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
E71.510
ICD-11
5A00.0
Body system
metabolic
Severity
fatal
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Warning signs - seek immediate care

!

Fatigue or weight changes

Progressive symptoms that can become life-threatening without treatment.

Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen.

!

Cholestatic liver disease

Severe hypotonia

(neurological)

Characteristic facial dysmorphism

(craniofacial)

Renal cortical cysts

(renal)

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

Comprehensive multidisciplinary supportive care

Coordinated care from specialists including neurologists, hepatologists, and nutritionists to manage symptoms and monitor disease progression. Regular assessments help address complications as they arise.

monitoring
2

Standard interventional procedure protocol

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

procedure
3

Specialized metabolic nutrition support

Tailored nutritional formulations designed to support metabolic needs and reduce burden on affected organ systems. May include specific fatty acid supplementation under medical supervision.

dietary

Additional treatment options

Seizure management

Appropriate anti-seizure medications prescribed based on seizure type and patient response. Regular monitoring for effectiveness and side effects.

medication

Developmental support and physical therapy

Therapeutic interventions aimed at maintaining joint mobility, preventing contractures, and maximizing functional abilities within individual capabilities.

physical_therapy

Family psychological support and counseling

Mental health support for families dealing with the emotional burden of a fatal diagnosis. May include grief counseling, coping strategies, and connection to support networks.

psychological

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Call emergency services (911) immediately

!

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 Severe Zellweger Spectrum Disorder Zellweger Syndrome Cn381138?

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

Steinberg SJ, Moser AB, Raymond GV. Clinical management guidelines for Zellweger spectrum disorders. Mol Genet Metab. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Braverman NE, Duley JA, Gabriel CM. Peroxisomal disorders and Zellweger syndrome: pathophysiology and therapeutic approaches. Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2021.

review2021
3

Van Vliet K, Dan Wang R, Smith MR. Dietary intervention in severe peroxisomal disorders: a multicenter study. J Inherit Metab Dis. 2020.

clinical_trial2020
4

Fahimi F, Miller M, Zhang L. Neurodevelopmental outcomes in Zellweger spectrum disorder: systematic review and meta-analysis. Pediatrics. 2023.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Severe Zellweger Spectrum Disorder Zellweger Syndrome Cn381138. 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