Black urine: what are the causes, what are the risks and what treatment is recommended

One of the warning signs that urine provides is when it is too dark in color, in the middle brown or blackupon contact with air.

This symptom indicates the presence of alkaptonuria. As stated in the note on the Mejor con Salud website, this condition is part of a group of rare diseases called congenital errors of metabolism e It is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme homogentisic acid oxidase.

Of a recessive hereditary nature – for it to manifest itself, both parents must be asymptomatic carriers of the defective gene that generates it -, it is considered among the rare diseases. In many cases it is detected in the hours after birth, although it can also be discovered until mid-adulthood (around age 40).

In addition to the pigmentation of the liquids, it is accompanied by discoloration of the tissues and, in the long term, inflammation and joint deformities.

How is alkaptonuria treated?

The Better with Health note makes it clear that there is no specific treatment for this disease. The indication points to treatments and therapies to control its manifestations and achieve a better quality of life.

The main recommendation is to follow a low-fat diet phenylalanine and tyrosine.

Also, depending on the singularities, it is recommended anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and pain management treatments. While, as the person advances in age, if there is a joint degeneration very pronounced, joint replacement may be indicated.

Is vitamin C effective?

Until some time ago, high daily doses of vitamin C were indicated for treatment. Then it was discovered that this nutrient causes the increase in acid that generates this situation.

Can it be prevented?

According to the Medline Plus website, in cases of family history of this disease, the recommendation is to carry out genetic studies before having children.

A blood test will be able to determine the presence of the gene for alkaptonuria. Prenatal tests (amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling) may also be performed to identify the genetic mutation.