About Fabry Disease

What is Fabry Disease?

Fabry disease is a rare, inherited disorder caused by a deficiency of the enzyme alpha-galactosidase A. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down a type of fat called globotriaosylceramide (Gb3). When the enzyme is deficient, Gb3 accumulates in the body's cells, leading to a wide range of symptoms, including pain, skin rashes, kidney and heart problems, and stroke. Fabry disease is a progressive disorder, and if left untreated, can lead to serious complications and even death.

What are the symptoms of Fabry Disease?

The most common symptoms of Fabry Disease include:

-Pain in the hands and feet (acroparesthesia)
-Burning sensations in the skin
-Gastrointestinal problems such as abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea
-Fatigue
-Decreased sweating (hypohidrosis)
-Cloudy corneas
-High blood pressure
-Heart problems such as angina, heart attack, and stroke
-Kidney problems
-Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
-Hearing loss
-Depression and anxiety

What are the causes of Fabry Disease?

Fabry Disease is caused by a genetic mutation in the GLA gene, which is responsible for producing an enzyme called alpha-galactosidase A. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down a type of fat molecule called globotriaosylceramide (Gb3). When the GLA gene is mutated, the body is unable to produce enough of the enzyme, leading to a buildup of Gb3 in the body's cells. This buildup can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, fatigue, and organ damage.

What are the treatments for Fabry Disease?

The primary treatment for Fabry Disease is enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). This involves intravenous infusions of the missing enzyme, alpha-galactosidase A, which helps to reduce the buildup of globotriaosylceramide (GL-3) in the body. Other treatments may include medications to reduce pain, kidney dialysis, and kidney transplantation. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as a low-fat diet, regular exercise, and stress management may help to reduce symptoms.

What are the risk factors for Fabry Disease?

1. Family history: Fabry Disease is an inherited disorder, so having a family history of the disease is a major risk factor.

2. Gender: Fabry Disease is more common in males than females.

3. Age: Symptoms of Fabry Disease usually begin to appear in childhood or adolescence.

4. Ethnicity: Fabry Disease is more common in people of Northern European descent.

Is there a cure/medications for Fabry Disease?

Yes, there are medications available to treat Fabry Disease. These medications are enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) and chaperone therapy. ERT replaces the missing enzyme in the body, while chaperone therapy helps the body to use the enzyme more effectively. Both treatments can help to reduce the symptoms of Fabry Disease.