Renal manifestations in Fabry disease and therapeutic options

Fabry disease is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder that affects both sexes. Progressive cellular accumulation of glycolipids starts early in life and, if untreated, eventually leads to organ failure and premature death. The Fabry nephropathy is characterized by initial proteinuria in the second to third decades of life, and development of structural changes including glomerular sclerosis, tubular atrophy, and interstitial fibrosis. Progressive kidney failure develops at a comparable rate as in diabetic nephropathy. First signs of kidney damage may arise in childhood, prior to first signs of overt renal dysfunction underscoring the key importance of early recognition and diagnosis. Globotriaosylceramide (GL-3) deposition is probably the initiating factor of the disease pathology and, with enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), clearance can be achieved in several cell types. However, some late-stage effects are not reversible. As there is growing evidence that renal outcomes are more directly related to the degree of fibrosis and scarring, preventing the development of these irreversible changes by early initiation of ERT may have the greatest impact on renal outcomes. Proteinuria should be rigorously monitored and aggressively treated with antiproteinuric therapy. This review describes the renal clinical features and histological changes, and outline options for therapeutic intervention that offer the best hope for patients affected by this life-threatening disorder.