Clinical L-Carnitine deficiencies may be grouped into primary and secondary disorders and functional shortages. Although all deficiency classifications are important, the functional shortages are the most prevalent.
Primary disorders
Caused by hereditary defects in the biosynthesis, metabolism and transport of L-Carnitine. They are usually characterized by excessive muscle deposits of fat (lipidosis), impaired muscle tone and significantly reduced health in general.
Secondary disorders
Caused by an insufficient supply of L-Carnitine in the feed, reduced biosynthesis, abnormal losses or an exceptionally high endogenous need for L-Carnitine.
Functional shortage
The functional L-Carnitine shortage is also of significance. It limits performance without triggering perceptible clinical or pathological symptoms. It tends to occur when the actual provision of L-Carnitine lags behind optimum level.
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