TLDR Some children in Malaysia with symptoms have either profound or partial biotinidase deficiency, and early testing and treatment are important.
The study on biotinidase deficiency in the Malaysian population analyzed data from 20 patients and identified 9 with the condition, revealing various mutations in the BTD gene. Clinical symptoms included seizures, hair loss, and skin infections. Early diagnosis and biotin treatment improved symptoms, though some neurological deficits were irreversible. The research emphasized the importance of newborn screening and genetic counseling for effective management of biotinidase deficiency.
86 citations,
January 1990 in “The Journal of Pediatrics” Children with partial biotinidase deficiency are healthy at birth but may develop symptoms that improve with biotin therapy.
82 citations,
August 2017 in “Cell Reports” An imbalanced gut and lack of biotin can cause hair loss in mice.
73 citations,
October 2001 in “Epilepsia” Children taking higher doses of valproic acid had lower biotinidase activity, which may lead to biotin deficiency, but biotin supplements could help.
78 citations,
January 2017 in “Skin appendage disorders” Biotin supplements may improve hair and nail growth in people with certain deficiencies or conditions, but there's not enough evidence to recommend it for healthy individuals.
40 citations,
August 2018 in “Skin appendage disorders” Some alternative treatments for hair loss might work, but more research is needed.
81 citations,
March 2009 in “Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery” Effective hair loss treatment in women requires correct diagnosis and can include medications like minoxidil, antiandrogens, and treatments for underlying conditions like PCOS.
