Not long ago, a diagnosis of molybdenum cofactor deficiency (MoCD) type A meant death before kindergarten. But new treatments and top-notch diagnostics at The Fetal Center at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, give babies like Ghaith a brighter outlook.
MoCD type A is an extremely rare and hereditary disorder that disrupts the proper function of enzymes in the body, specifically the inability to synthesize molybdenum cofactor. Without a sufficient amount of this trace element, sulfites and toxins build up in the body causing a wide range of serious neurological and developmental abnormalities. MoCD type A symptoms usually appear within the first weeks of a baby’s life. Left untreated, the baby will experience irreversible significant brain damage and early death.
With state-of-the art technology, doctors at Nationwide were able to diagnose Ghaith prenatally. It was decided to deliver Ghaith early at 32 weeks gestation to protect the brain. In the delivery room, he was able to receive medication immediately through his umbilical cord. This is the earliest treatment of a baby with MoCD Type A.
