Underlying the carbohydrate-deficient glycoprotein syndrome (CDGS) type 1b is a defect in phosphomannose isomerase (PMI), an enzyme of mannose metabolism. The clinical manifestations include exudative gastroenteropathy, thromboses and hemorrhages. In contrast to other forms of the CDGS syndrome, neurological symptoms are completely lacking. The condition responds to a simple dietetic treatment employing the monosaccharide mannose.