Which disorder is a degenerative nerve condition that leads to the destruction of brain and spinal cord cells?

The correct choice is Tay Sachs disease, which is indeed a degenerative nerve condition. Tay Sachs is a genetic disorder caused by a deficiency of the enzyme hexosaminidase A, leading to the accumulation of a fatty substance called GM2 ganglioside in the brain and spinal cord. This accumulation results in progressive neurodegeneration, ultimately leading to severe neurological impairment and, typically, a shortened lifespan.

This condition primarily affects infants and young children and is characterized by a loss of motor skills, increased sensitivity, and various neurological symptoms as the disease progresses. The hallmark of Tay Sachs is the degeneration of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, which is why it is classified as a degenerative nerve condition.

In comparison, hemophilia relates to blood coagulation issues, albinism involves a lack of melanin production affecting skin and eye pigmentation, and phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder caused by the inability to metabolize phenylalanine. None of these conditions directly involve the degeneration of nerve cells in the way that Tay Sachs disease does.