What is the management approach for multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MADD) deficiency?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: June 8, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

The management of multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD) should primarily focus on riboflavin supplementation at doses of 50-200 mg/day, as recommended by the most recent guideline evidence 1. The goal of this management approach is to improve the patient's quality of life, reduce morbidity, and minimize mortality.

Key Management Strategies

  • Riboflavin supplementation: The dose of 50-200 mg/day is supported by the espen micronutrient guideline, which has a grade of recommendation of GPP and a consensus of 87% 1.
  • Dietary modifications: Although not explicitly mentioned in the provided evidence, dietary management is crucial in MADD patients, and may include a low-fat, low-protein diet with restricted long-chain fatty acids and supplementation with medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oil).
  • Monitoring: Regular monitoring of clinical symptoms, growth parameters, and metabolic markers is essential to adjust treatment and ensure the best possible outcomes.

Rationale for Riboflavin Supplementation

Riboflavin plays a critical role in energy production and is involved in redox reactions and antioxidant functions 1. In MADD patients, riboflavin supplementation can help improve the function of defective enzymes, such as electron transfer flavoprotein (ETF) and ETF-ubiquinone oxidoreductase.

Additional Considerations

  • The management approach may vary based on disease severity, with neonatal-onset forms generally having poorer outcomes despite aggressive treatment.
  • Other interventions, such as coenzyme Q10 and sodium-D,L-3-hydroxybutyrate, may be considered in some patients, particularly those with more severe forms of MADD.

From the Research

Management Approach for Multiple Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase (MADD) Deficiency

The management approach for MADD deficiency involves several key components, including:

  • Dietary treatment: A low-fat, low-protein, high-carbohydrate diet, avoiding long fasting periods, has been shown to be effective in managing MADD deficiency 2.
  • Monitoring: Acylcarnitines and fatty acids can be used to monitor the response to dietary treatment 2.
  • Riboflavin therapy: Riboflavin supplementation has been shown to ameliorate disease symptoms in some patients with MADD deficiency, particularly those with FLAD1 mutations 3.
  • Avoiding metabolic decompensations: Patients with MADD deficiency are at risk of metabolic decompensations, which can be triggered by factors such as fasting, illness, or stress. Avoiding these triggers and providing prompt treatment can help prevent complications.

Treatment Options

Treatment options for MADD deficiency may include:

  • Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) supplementation: This has been shown to be effective in improving symptoms in some patients with MADD deficiency 3, 4.
  • Dietary modifications: A low-fat, low-protein, high-carbohydrate diet, avoiding long fasting periods, can help manage MADD deficiency 2.
  • Exogenous amylase: This can be used to allow the use of corn starch in small children with MADD deficiency, providing a alternative to continuous overnight feedings 2.

Diagnosis and Screening

Diagnosis and screening for MADD deficiency can be achieved through:

  • Tandem mass spectrometry: This can be used to analyze blood acyl carnitine spectrum and detect MADD deficiency 2, 4.
  • Newborn screening: This can help identify MADD deficiency early, allowing for prompt treatment and improved outcomes 2, 4.
  • Clinical evaluation: Patients with MADD deficiency may present with a range of symptoms, including lipid deposition myopathy, vomiting, liver disease, and encephalopathy. A thorough clinical evaluation is essential for diagnosis and management 5, 4.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.