My son has MCADD and developmental delay. What could cause this?

Hi doctor,

I have a seven and half-year-old son. He has metabolic genetic illnesses MCADD and not able to break down fats to produce energy. So has to eat carbohydrates and drink on time to maintain his blood sugar levels as well. He has chylomicron retention disease which is not being able to absorb fat and so he needs soluble vitamins such as vitamin E and he needs a special low-fat diet. He also has developmental delays in all areas. At that time I thought it was normal because his illness was not found out until he was nearly 2 years old and had been failing to thrive before that he was under malnutrition.

I also have two other boys who also have developmental delay but not as severe as how my oldest one was. Consultant are saying now that maybe some genetic issues must be going on and put us all in the 100 000 genomes study research hoping to find some answers for the abnormal blood result of my seven and a half year old. His CK levels have been persistently elevated. His last reading was 1155. AST TO 70 units per liter and ALT TO 71 units per liter. They are still investigating and hoping to find some answers.

His other blood were normal for thyroid function. Glucose and lactate, ammonia in plasma, uric acid in plasma and renal functions all were fine. Due to persistent CK levels, it is pointing more towards a myopathy. I am very confused and yes, he has been showing certain signs like he cannot walk too much with feet pain, and on and off finger pains. It seems to me that he is not a strong child for his age but seems fine other than that.