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Misdiagnosis in mucopolysaccharidoses
Karolina Wiśniewska1, Jakub Wolski2, Lidia Gaffke1
1Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland.
Abstract:
Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) is a group of 13 hereditary metabolic diseases identified in humans (or 14 diseases if considering one MPS type described to date only in mice) in which an enzymatic defect results in the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAG) in the lysosomes of cells. First of all, as a result of GAG storage, the proper functioning of the lysosome is disturbed; then, the cells, and finally, tissue, organs, and the whole organism malfunctions are observed. Due to the rarity, heterogeneity, and multi-systemic and progressive nature of MPS, they present a major diagnostic challenge. Due to the wide variation in symptoms and their similarity to other diseases, MPS is often misdiagnosed, usually as neurological diseases (like autism spectrum disorders, psychomotor hyperactivity, and intellectual disability) or rheumatology and orthopedic disorders (like juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Perthes disease, rickets, and muscular dystrophy). In this review article, we present the problems associated with the possibility of misdiagnosing MPS, discuss what diseases they can be confused with, and suggest ways to reduce these problems in the future.
Insights
Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) is a rare group of metabolic diseases causing glycosaminoglycan (GAG) buildup. Misdiagnosis is common due to varied symptoms, often mistaken for neurological or orthopedic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) encompasses 13-14 rare hereditary metabolic disorders.
- Characterized by enzymatic defects leading to glycosaminoglycan (GAG) accumulation in lysosomes.
- GAG storage disrupts cellular and organ function, causing multi-systemic disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight diagnostic challenges in MPS.
- To discuss common misdiagnoses of MPS.
- To propose strategies for improving MPS diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on MPS diagnosis and misdiagnosis.
- Analysis of symptom overlap between MPS and other conditions.
- Identification of potential diagnostic improvements.
Main Results:
- MPS presents significant diagnostic challenges due to rarity and heterogeneity.
- Symptoms often mimic neurological disorders (e.g., autism spectrum disorders) and orthopedic conditions (e.g., juvenile idiopathic arthritis).
- Misdiagnosis is frequent, leading to delayed or incorrect treatment.
Conclusions:
- Early and accurate diagnosis of MPS is crucial for effective management.
- Increased awareness and specific diagnostic pathways are needed.
- Reducing misdiagnosis requires understanding symptom variability and differential diagnoses.
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