National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase deficiency

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My doctor has prescribed Fluorouracil to treat pre-cancerous spots on my hands. To my knowledge, I don't have any family history of dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency, but I have read that up to 8% of the population has some form of this, which can be problematic when Fluorouracil is used. Should I be tested prior to use and is there an alternative course of treatment? 
To find a medical professional who specializes in genetics, you can ask your doctor for a referral or you can search for one yourself. Online directories are provided by the American College of Medical Genetics and the National Society of Genetic Counselors. If you need additional help, contact a GARD Information Specialist. You can also learn more about genetic consultations from Genetics Home Reference.
Last updated: 12/6/2017

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