looking for Slovakian caver(s)

[Alkapton]

It is possible I go to Slovakia soon for short time - so I wonder if there is a caver there who suffers from ochronosis alkaptonuria (AKU) or who knows someone with the disease

 

[Alkapton]

Actually I'm looking for someone who might help with cheap accommodation and transport - the thing about aku is not really important.

 

[mulucaver]

Try this http://www.saske.sk/cave/plp/eadresy.html
I've caved with some of them and they are really helpful although many don't speak much English.

 

[rhychydwr1]

It is possible I go to Slovakia soon for short time - so I wonder if there is a caver there who suffers from ochronosis alkaptonuria (AKU) or who knows someone with the disease

Alkaptonuria (black urine disease or alcaptonuria) is a rare inherited genetic disorder of phenylalanine and tyrosine metabolism. This is an autosomal recessive condition that is due to a defect in the enzyme homogentisate 1,2-dioxygenase (EC 1.13.11.5), which participates in the degradation of tyrosine. As a result, homogentisic acid and its oxide, called alkapton, accumulate in the blood and are excreted in urine in large amounts (hence -uria). Excessive homogentisic acid causes damage to cartilage (ochronosis, leading to osteoarthritis) and heart valves as well as precipitating as kidney stones. Treatment with nitisinone, which suppresses homogentisic acid production, is being studied. Alkaptonuria is more common in Slovakia and the Dominican Republic than in other countries.

Not many people know that....