medical Definition of Alport syndrome
: a genetic disorder of the kidneys that is usually inherited as an X-linked trait, is typically more severe in males, and is characterized especially by blood in the urine, hearing loss, abnormalities of the eye, and progressive renal failure
Note:
Alport syndrome is caused by mutations in genes encoding a type of collagen normally present in basement membranes.
- Most victims of Alport syndrome experience progressive kidney failure, often requiring a kidney transplant or prolonged kidney dialysis.
- —William Booth, The Washington Post, 8 June 1990
