Zellweger spectrum disorders: clinical overview and management approach

Femke C C Klouwer1,2, Kevin Berendse3,4, Sacha Ferdinandusse5

  • 1Department of Paediatric Neurology, Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, PO BOX 22660, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. f.c.klouwer@amc.uva.nl.

Insights

Zellweger spectrum disorders (ZSDs) are peroxisomal biogenesis disorders. This review details current supportive care and management recommendations for ZSD patients, as no cure exists.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Genetics
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Zellweger spectrum disorders (ZSDs) are a significant group of peroxisomal biogenesis disorders.
  • These disorders stem from defects in PEX genes, leading to impaired peroxisome function.
  • ZSDs present a clinical and biochemical continuum with varied phenotypes, from severe neonatal to mild adult presentations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the management strategies for Zellweger spectrum disorders.
  • To provide recommendations for supportive therapeutic options for ZSD patients.
  • To aid healthcare professionals in caring for individuals with ZSDs.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing studies on Zellweger spectrum disorders.
  • Analysis of clinical and biochemical data related to ZSD phenotypes.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on supportive care and management.

Main Results:

  • ZSDs result in metabolic abnormalities detectable in blood and urine.
  • No curative therapy is currently available for ZSDs.
  • Supportive care is the primary approach to managing ZSDs.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management of ZSDs relies on comprehensive supportive care.
  • Recommendations are provided to guide therapeutic options for ZSD patients.
  • Further research into ZSDs may improve patient outcomes.

Related Concept Videos

Autism Spectrum Disorder01:19

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
1.7K
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...
1.5K
Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation01:30

Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation

Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is classified into subtypes based on the predominant bowel habits as determined by the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). The subtypes are:
1.0K
Cystic Fibrosis: Management01:24

Cystic Fibrosis: Management

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disorder that predominantly affects individuals of Northern European descent, occurring at a rate of 1 in 3500. It is caused by a genetic mutation in a gene on chromosome 7, most commonly the ΔF508 mutation, that codes for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. This results in thicker mucus secretions and obstruction pathologies in multiple organs, including the lungs and sinuses.
Sinus disease and chronic...
620
Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management01:26

Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management

IntroductionNephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder marked by excessive protein loss in the urine, leading to various systemic complications. This condition often results from damage to the glomeruli—the kidney's filtering units—causing proteinuria, low blood protein levels, and fluid retention. Understanding the assessment, diagnosis, and management of nephrotic syndrome is essential for effective treatment and prevention of further kidney damage.AssessmentPatient History: Document...
320
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management01:26

Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management

Patients with esophageal strictures often experience a range of symptoms. Initially, they may have difficulty swallowing solid foods, which can progress to include liquids. Additional symptoms may involve chest pain or discomfort, regurgitating food and fluids, heartburn, unintentional weight loss, coughing or choking during meals, and hoarseness.
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
893