Long-term follow-up of a girl with Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome after bone marrow transplantation.

BACKGROUND

Mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (MPS VI or Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome) is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder. We treated a 10-year-old girl with Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome successfully with bone marrow transplantation (BMT).

METHODS

The patient had reconstitution with bone marrow from her HLA-matched brother. One month after BMT, arylsulfatase activity of the recipient's leukocytes became normal. No graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) was observed. Arylsulfatase B activity was maintained and the urinary excretion of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) became normal.

RESULTS

The clinical response of the patient was slow but persistent during 12 years after BMT. Improved motor function included walking alone for a long distance without aid, riding a bicycle, taking a bath by herself, etc. Besides, few infections occurred. Exertional dyspnea, severe snoring, and vertigo were much improved.

CONCLUSIONS

Early intervention is recommended for BMT. Allogeneic BMT may provide a better life quality as illustrated in the present case.