cystinosis

The cystinosis - A rare genetic disorder in which the amino acid cystine accumulates in cells throughout the body. The juvenile form of cystinosis becomes apparent in the first year of life, at which time cystine deposits damage the eyes, resulting in impaired vision.

The deposits also lead to potentially fatal kidney failure. In the adult form, which is less severe, the main symptoms are eye problems, including extreme sensitivity to light (see photophobia). The kidneys are much less likely to be affected in adults than in children.