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In Vitro Enzyme Measurement to Test Pharmacological Chaperone Responsiveness in Fabry and Pompe Disease
Published on: December 20, 2017
Renal involvement in paediatric Fabry disease
S Sestito1, F Falvo1, A Sallemi2
1Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Pediatric Unit, "Magna Graecia" University, Catanzaro, Italy.
Anderson-Fabry Disease (AFD) involves glycosphingolipid buildup due to alpha-galactosidase A deficiency. Early enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is key for preventing kidney damage in children, though optimal timing remains debated.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Nephrology
Background:
- Anderson-Fabry Disease (AFD) is a rare, X-linked disorder of glycosphingolipid metabolism.
- Deficiency in alpha-galactosidase A leads to globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) accumulation in lysosomes.
- Renal failure is a major complication, with Gb3 accumulation occurring years before symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of renal biopsy in diagnosing early nephropathy in pediatric AFD.
- To discuss the effectiveness of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) in managing pediatric AFD.
- To address the optimal timing for initiating ERT in children with AFD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on AFD, renal involvement, and ERT in pediatric patients.
- Analysis of evidence regarding renal biopsy utility and ERT efficacy.
- Discussion of current management strategies and open questions.
Main Results:
- Gb3 accumulation begins early in life, preceding clinical renal signs like microalbuminuria and proteinuria.
- Renal biopsy can detect early, potentially reversible nephropathy and assess ERT effectiveness.
- While early ERT is recommended, the precise initiation timing in pediatric AFD is still under discussion.
Conclusions:
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing AFD-related nephropathy.
- Renal biopsy is a valuable tool for assessing disease stage and treatment response in children.
- Further research is needed to establish optimal ERT initiation protocols for pediatric AFD.
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