FABRY DISEASE

Build up of a type of fatty substance in the body which narrows blood vessels which can affect the skin, kidneys, heart, brain, and nervous system.
It is a familial disease with multiple symptoms such as pain in the hands and feet and a specific kind of rash.
May referred to as a “storage disorder.” It usually starts in childhood and is more common in men than in women.

May manifest as:

Pain and burning in your hands and feet that get worse with exercise, fever, and hot weather or when you are tired
Small, dark red spots usually found between your belly button and knees
Cloudy vision
Hearing loss
Ringing in the ears
Sweating less than normal
Stomach pain, bowel movements right after eating

Can lead to more serious problems, especially in men. These can include:

DIAGNOSIS

Physician may do/request:

History & Physical Exam
- Many people who have Fabry disease don’t get diagnosed until years after they first had symptoms since the symptoms are common and can affect so many different parts of the body.
- Family History of Fabry disease – you may wish to consult your doctor for genetic testing
Blood test
- Measurement of of alpha-galactosidase A levels
DNA test

RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS

Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT)

Replaces the enzyme that is missing or not working correctly so that your body can break down fatty substances the way it should.
It is the only FDA-approved treatment for Fabry disease which will help ease the pain and other symptoms.
You will probably visit an outpatient center every few weeks to get the enzyme injected into a vein.

The following may also be recommended:

Dialysis or a kidney transplant may be needed if the disease has caused serious kidney damage.

Regular monitoring tests may include:

Blood, urine, and thyroid tests
EKG (electrocardiogram)
- Measurement of electrical signals from your heart and can tell how fast your heart is beating and if it has a healthy rhythm.
Echocardiogram
- ultrasound of your heart which can show if all the parts of your heart are healthy and if it’s pumping well.
Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Computed tomography scan (CT Scan)
Hearing and eye exams
Lung function test
- Assessement of how much air you breathe in and out, and how much oxygen is getting to your blood

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