Cachexia: An Unsolved Puzzle

Mohammed Shanil P, Farsana Jasmin K

Abstract: APS type 1 (APS - 1) is a rare, autosomal recessive inherited disorder encompassing chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, hypoparathyroidism, and autoimmune adrenal insufficiency, with the presence of two of these being essential for diagnosis. APS - 1 primarily affects young patients, both males and females equally. The pathogenesis of the syndrome involves the development of T cells with a high affinity to auto antigens; a defect in the body?s immune system fails to eliminate these T cells, and thus they bind to and attack the host?s cells. Apart from the manifestations listed above, APS - 1 patients can also develop hypogonadism, vitiligo, chronic diarrhea and gastritis, autoimmune hepatitis, autoimmune hypothyroidism, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and pituitary failure.

Keywords: Autoimmune polyglandular syndrome, mucocutaneous candidiasis, T cells, cortisol, adrenal insufficiency