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Common Causes Of A Biotin Deficiency

Biotin is part of the vitamin B family. It is part of the vitamins responsible for breaking down food and converting it to energy. Biotin is primarily responsible for skin, nail, and hair health. Additionally, it helps regulate blood sugar and bad cholesterol. Biotin is not produced by the body, but by the bacteria in the gut, and does not spend a long time in the body. Biotin is found in a lot of foods, so it is not common to find someone with a biotin deficiency. 

Some signs of a deficiency include dry skin, dry eyes, red rashes, hair loss, muscle pain, fatigues, and many other general symptoms. Because of the generality of the symptoms, it can be misdiagnosed. It is important for doctors to run some bloodwork to see if patients are deficient in biotin or if their symptoms are due to another condition.

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Biotinidase Deficiency

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Biotinidase deficiency is a rare, genetic disease that results in the body not properly processing biotin. It is the result of a mutation of the BTD gene. Since biotin is essential in the metabolic process, it causes problems with various bodily systems when it is not processed properly. Since it is a genetic disorder, biotinidase deficiency can be seen shortly after birth by some symptoms, including widespread skin rash, poor muscle tone, and hair loss. 

The primary treatment for a biotin deficiency because of this genetic mutation is oral biotin supplements to replace what the body should have been able to process. It is possible someone with this disorder will have to take the biotin for their entire life. With proper treatment, the symptoms should dissipate and go away. Additionally, patients might be able to find clinical studies on biotinidase deficiency and be eligible for participation.

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