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Published on: October 21, 2014
Perinatal lethal Gaucher disease: a distinct phenotype along the neuronopathic continuum
Michael J Eblan1, Ozlem Goker-Alpan, Ellen Sidransky
1Section on Molecular Neurogenetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
Severe Gaucher disease (GD) presents as a lethal perinatal condition with hydrops and ichthyosis. Early diagnosis is crucial, as this rare lysosomal disorder is often overlooked in newborns.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
- Neonatology
Background:
- Gaucher disease (GD) is an inherited lysosomal storage disorder caused by glucocerebrosidase deficiency.
- GD exhibits significant genetic and phenotypic variability.
- The perinatal lethal variant represents the most severe form of GD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the distinct phenotype of the perinatal lethal variant of Gaucher disease.
- To highlight the challenges in diagnosing this severe form of GD.
- To emphasize the importance of recognizing the association between lysosomal disorders and hydrops fetalis.
Main Methods:
- Phenotypic characterization of infants with severe Gaucher disease.
- Genetic analysis to identify causative mutations.
- Review of diagnostic challenges and clinical presentations.
Main Results:
- The perinatal lethal variant of GD presents with hydrops fetalis and/or congenital ichthyosis.
- Severe, progressive neurological involvement is a hallmark of this phenotype.
- Many affected infants are homozygous for recombinant alleles, complicating diagnosis.
- The null-allele Gaucher mouse model provided insights into this phenotype.
Conclusions:
- The perinatal lethal variant of Gaucher disease is an underrecognized cause of hydrops fetalis.
- Increased physician awareness is essential for timely diagnosis and management.
- Early identification can improve understanding and potentially outcomes for affected families.
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