Table 6.

Treatment of Manifestations in Individuals with Mucopolysaccharidosis Type III

Manifestation/
Concern
TreatmentConsiderations/Other
Seizures ASM as determined by neurologist
Neurodevelopmental delays Supportive therapies (e.g., speech therapy, PT, OT)
Psychiatric/
behavioral issues
  • Treatment as determined by psychiatrist
  • Creation of physically safe environment at home
Behavioral therapy is unlikely to be effective, especially since any improvements are often lost w/disease progression. Risperidone can be considered for treatment of hyperactivity [Kalkan Ucar et al 2010]. Antipsychotic drugs may also be effective.
Sleep disorders
  • Consider use of melatonin or other medication [Mahon et al 2014].
  • Consider polysomnogram if suspicion of sleep apnea.
Treating sleep disorders is, overall, difficult. Consider referral to pulmonologist if concern for sleep apnea. Home modifications may be helpful for children to avoid falls or injuries at night.
Musculoskeletal manifestations
  • Treatment as determined by orthopedist
  • PT or hydrotherapy for joint stiffness
  • Vitamin D therapy in the context of low BMD [Nur et al 2017]
Decisions about surgical intervention should be made in the context of disease course & quality of life. Therapies may be useful, but should not be intensive, especially if they cause pain.
Hearing loss Ear tube insertion or hearing aid use
Recurrent ENT/respiratory infections
  • Treatment as determined by otolaryngologist
  • Consider airway clearance therapy, particularly in later disease stages.
  • The importance of routine immunizations & annual influenza vaccines should be emphasized.
  • Pneumococcal vaccine may be considered.
Cardiovascular anomalies Treatment as determined by cardiologistConsider bacterial endocarditis prophylaxis for patients w/cardiac abnormalities.
Feeding difficulties
w/resulting malnutrition
Gastrostomy tube (G-tube) placementDifficulty chewing & swallowing, &/or dysphagia are common in later stages of disease. Aspiration may ↑ risk for pulmonary infection.
Visual impairment Treatment as determined by ophthalmologist
Palliative care specialist Per palliative care specialistSee Palliative Care.

ASM = anti-seizure medication; BMD = bone mineral density; OT = occupational therapy; PT = physical therapy

From: Mucopolysaccharidosis Type III

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