ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase deficiency

Okay kiddo, so you know that all of our organs and body parts need the right amount of oxygen and nutrients to work properly, right? Well, there are special proteins in our liver called cytochrome P450 enzymes that help our bodies process all the things we eat and drink.

But sometimes, some people can be born with a problem called cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase deficiency. That's a really big and fancy name, but basically it means that their bodies don't make enough of the special protein that helps the cytochrome P450 enzymes work properly.

This can cause all sorts of problems for these people, because the things that the cytochrome P450 enzymes are supposed to break down and get rid of can build up in their bodies and cause damage. Some of the things that can build up are things like hormones, medications, and toxins.

So kids with cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase deficiency might have trouble growing properly, or might have problems with their hormones or their adrenal glands. They might also be more sensitive to certain medications or chemicals, and could have bad side effects if they try to take those things.

Doctors can sometimes diagnose this problem with special tests, and there are treatments that these kids can get to help manage their symptoms. But they might need special care and attention from their doctors to keep them healthy and safe.