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Author Spotlight: Studying Clinical Characters and Epilepsy Outcomes After Frontal Disconnection in Patients with MOGHE
Published on: August 16, 2024
Epilepsy in mucopolysaccharidosis disorders
Maurizio Scarpa1, Charles Marques Lourenço2, Hernán Amartino3
1Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Helios Dr. Horst Schmidt Kliniken, Center for Rare Diseases, Wiesbaden, Germany; Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
Abstract:
The mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) disorders are caused by deficiencies of specific lysosomal enzymes involved in the catabolism of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). The resulting GAG accumulation in cells and tissues throughout the body leads to progressive multi-organ dysfunction. MPS patients present with several somatic manifestations, including short stature, musculoskeletal abnormalities, and cardiorespiratory dysfunction, and several primary and secondary neurological signs and symptoms. Epileptic seizures are neurological signs of MPS thought to develop due to accumulation of GAGs in the brain, triggering alterations in neuronal connectivity and signaling, and release of inflammatory mediators. The amount of literature on the prevalence, pathophysiology, clinical features, and management of epileptic seizures in patients with MPS is limited. This review discusses current knowledge on this topic, as well as two case examples, presented and discussed during a closed meeting on MPS and the brain among an international group of experts with extensive experience in managing and treating MPS.
Insights
Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are genetic disorders causing GAG accumulation, leading to multi-organ dysfunction and neurological issues like seizures. This review details current knowledge on MPS-related epilepsy, highlighting limited existing literature.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Neurology
Background:
- Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) result from lysosomal enzyme deficiencies.
- Deficiencies lead to glycosaminoglycan (GAG) accumulation, causing multi-organ dysfunction.
- Neurological symptoms, including epileptic seizures, are common in MPS patients.
Observation:
- GAG accumulation in the brain is hypothesized to cause neuronal alterations and inflammation.
- Literature on the prevalence, pathophysiology, and management of MPS-related epilepsy is scarce.
- This review synthesizes current knowledge and presents case examples.
Findings:
- Epileptic seizures in MPS are linked to GAG buildup in brain tissue.
- Altered neuronal connectivity, signaling, and inflammation contribute to seizure development.
- Expert discussion focused on MPS and neurological manifestations.
Implications:
- Increased understanding of MPS-associated epilepsy is crucial for patient care.
- Further research is needed to establish effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
- This review serves as a foundational resource for clinicians and researchers in the field.
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