Morquio syndrome: diagnosis in an adult

Catherine Prat1, Olivia Lemaire, Johan Bret

  • 1Rheumatology Department, Purpan Teaching Hospital, Toulouse, France.

Joint Bone Spine
|May 6, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Morquio syndrome (MPS) type IVA, a rare genetic disorder, can present with mild symptoms leading to late adult diagnosis. This case highlights the importance of recognizing attenuated phenotypes for timely intervention.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Biochemistry
  • Rare Diseases

Background:

  • Morquio syndrome (MPS) type IV is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder.
  • It results from deficiencies in enzymes responsible for keratan sulfate degradation.
  • MPS IV has two variants, A and B, with Type A typically being more severe.

Observation:

  • A case of MPS IVA was diagnosed in a 38-year-old woman, illustrating an attenuated phenotype.
  • This presentation highlights that MPS IVA may escape early diagnosis in childhood.
  • Clinical and radiological features of MPS are reviewed, noting pediatricians' greater familiarity.

Findings:

  • Attenuated phenotypes of MPS IVA can lead to diagnosis in adulthood.
  • Keratan sulfate accumulation underlies the pathology of Morquio syndrome.
  • Enzyme deficiencies in Type A MPS IV are distinct from Type B.

Implications:

  • Increased awareness of attenuated MPS IVA phenotypes is crucial for adult diagnosis.
  • Rheumatologists should be involved in managing MPS IVA patients alongside surgical teams.
  • Early and accurate diagnosis improves patient outcomes and management strategies.

Related Concept Videos

Myasthenia Gravis: Diagnostic Tests01:15

Myasthenia Gravis: Diagnostic Tests

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune condition affecting neuromuscular transmission, causing generalized weakness in skeletal muscles. Initial diagnoses rely on patients' signs, symptoms, and medical history. The challenge lies in distinguishing myasthenia from other muscular dystrophies. An important diagnostic feature is the significant improvement of symptoms after administering anticholinesterase inhibitors.
The edrophonium test is a diagnostic tool for myasthenia gravis. It involves...
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests01:23

Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests

Mitral stenosis is a heart condition in which the mitral valve, which allows blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle, becomes narrowed or stenotic. This narrowing hinders blood flow and leads to clinical symptoms requiring specific medical evaluations and management strategies. The following overview outlines the clinical symptoms, assessments, diagnostic findings, prevention methods, and treatments for mitral stenosis.Clinical ManifestationsDyspnea (shortness of breath): This...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:21

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy01:29

Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM, is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy without ventricular dilation. It is more common in men and is typically diagnosed in young, athletic adults.EtiologyHCM is primarily genetic and is caused by mutations in genes encoding sarcomeric proteins. Researchers have identified over 1400 mutations across at least 11 different genes. Among these, the most frequently occurring mutations are found in the...
Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management01:21

Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management

Individuals with Barrett's esophagus are often asymptomatic, but they may experience symptoms commonly associated with GERD, such as heartburn and acid regurgitation. Additional symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, unintentional weight loss, blood in the stool (which may appear black, tarry, or bloody), and episodes of vomiting.
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure entails...
Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:22

Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

The key clinical manifestations of Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) include several distinct cardiac symptoms.Carditis, a hallmark of acute rheumatic fever, involves inflammation of the heart's endocardium, myocardium, and pericardium. Chronic RHD often results from recurrent episodes of carditis. Its symptoms include the following:Murmurs are caused by valvular damage, especially to the mitral and aortic valves. Mitral stenosis or regurgitation is common, with characteristic heart murmurs...