Genetics of Mucopolysaccharidosis Type II Treatment & Management
- Author: Nancy E Braverman, MS, MD; Chief Editor: Bruce Buehler, MD more...
Medical Care
Although no curative treatment for lysosomal storage disorders is available, numerous treatment options are becoming available to improve the quality of life in these patients. The relevant enzyme (iduronate sulfatase [IDS] in the case of mucopolysaccharidosis type II [MPS II]) can be given in the form of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) or by bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Factors that affect outcome include the type of MPS, the donor genotype (in the case of BMT), and the age and degree of clinical involvement at the start of therapy or transplantation.
In order to identify individuals that might benefit from treatment before the onset of irreversible organ damage, newborn screening for these disorders is being developed.[28] Gene therapy is a promising but inadequately developed modality of treatment. Difficulties with vector selection and efficiency of delivery persist; thus, this therapy is still in the early stages of development.
- BMT
- In 16 children with Hunter syndrome who have undergone BMT, marked deterioration in mental retardation continued in 15.[29] All 15 children had intelligence quotients that fell below 50. Some of these children did have improvement in their somatic symptoms, with a decrease in the coarsening of their face and hair and an increase in the range of motion in their joints. The hearing deficits may not improve after BMT.
- In addition to the study of BMT, the use of umbilical cord blood transplantation from an unrelated donor has been attempted at least once.[30]
- ERT: See Medication.
Surgical Care
- Many children with Hunter syndrome require surgical intervention for complications of their disorder. These include intervention for chronic hydrocephalus, nerve entrapment (carpal tunnel syndrome), abdominal wall hernias, tracheostomy, and joint contractures.
- Individuals with Hunter syndrome should undergo anesthesia at a center with experienced personnel.
- Problems can occur with airway management, postobstructive pulmonary edema, and reactive airway disease.
Consultations
- Care for the patient with Hunter syndrome involves a multidisciplinary approach and includes pediatricians, neurologists, orthopedists, otolaryngologists, ophthalmologists, and occupational and physical therapists, as well as geneticists and counselors.
- The recognition and diagnosis of MPS II was recently reviewed.[31]
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