How is PA inherited?
PA is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. It affects both boys and girls equally. Everyone has a pair of genes that make the PCC enzyme. In children with PA, neither of these genes works correctly. These children inherit one non-working gene for the condition from each parent. Parents of children with PA rarely have the disorder themselves. Instead, each parent has a single non-working gene for PA. They are called carriers. Carriers do not have PA because the other gene of this pair is working correctly. When both parents are carriers, there is a 25% chance in each pregnancy for the child to have PA. There is a 50% chance for the child to be a carrier, just like the parents. And, there is a 25% chance for the child to have two working genes. Genetic counseling is available to families who have children with PA. Genetic counselors can answer your questions about how PA is inherited, choices during future pregnancies, and how to test other family members. Ask your doctor about a
