IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-8-3-18325 Original Research Paper A RARE CASE OF ALKAPTONURIC ARTHRITIS Polavarapu Dr. N.S.Datt Dr. March 2019 8 3 01 02 ABSTRACT

Ochronosis is an inherited genetic disorder of phenylalanine and tyrosine metabolism due to deficiency of enzyme homogentisic acid oxidase.It is an inborn error of metabolism with autosomal recessive inheritance.Greyish to bluish black pigment in the connective tissues such as cartilage,skin and intervertebral disc occurs due to accumulation of homogentisic acid leading to degenerative arthritis. This condition is rare, affecting 1 in 250000 to 1 million people worldwide.Diagnosis can be made in neonates when blackish stain is noticed in an diaper. Alkaptonuria is treated symptomatically, with Vitamin C and dietary restrictions of food containing phenylalanine and tyrosine have proved to be successful in reducing the symptoms.