Essential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD)

Essential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD) is a clinical condition resulting from an inadequate supply or absorption of the essential polyunsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3). These fatty acids are critical structural components of cell membranes and serve as precursors for the synthesis of bioactive eicosanoids, such as prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and thromboxanes, which regulate inflammation and vascular tone. Humans lack the desaturase enzymes required to synthesize these molecules de novo, making dietary intake or parenteral supplementation essential for maintaining physiological functions. Clinically, EFAD manifests as scaly dermatitis, alopecia, impaired growth, and poor wound healing, often occurring in the context of fat malabsorption or lipid-free parenteral nutrition. Diagnosis is primarily biochemical, characterized by an elevation of Mead acid and a high triene-to-tetraene ratio, reflecting the body's compensatory shift toward omega-9 fatty acid metabolism. Therapeutic management involves the administration of lipid emulsions or specific fatty acid supplements to restore physiological levels and resolve clinical symptoms.

Other names

EFA deficiencyFatty acid deficiencyPolyunsaturated fatty acid deficiencyLinoleic and alpha-linolenic acid deficiency

Direct replenishment of essential fatty acid stores to restore normal membrane phospholipid composition and provide substrates for the synthesis of bioactive lipid mediators.