ABSTRACT

One of the lipoprotein disorders. (See Lipoproteins.) The characteristic lack of apoB lipoprotein is due to a mutation in the gene for a microsomal triglyceride transfer protein that is essential for apoB lipoprotein translocation to the surface of the enterocyte and subsequent synthesis of the intestinal chylomicrons. This is a rare disorder inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. It is characterized by a complete lack of apoB-containing lipoproteins. It is associated with the clinical symptoms of lipid malabsorption, acanthocytes, retinitis pigmentosa, and myoneuropathy. In addition, clinical signs of fat-soluble vitamin deficiency may appear due to inadequate absorption of these vitamins.