 
 Society for Mucopolysaccharide © 2009
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  Overview of Symptoms and Effects
SymptomsThere is a continuous process in the body of replacing used materials and breaking them down for disposal. Children born with a Mucopolysaccharide or Related Disease are unable to produce one of the enzymes essential for this process. If even one enzyme is missing, the cycle is interrupted. Used materials cannot be broken down and remain stored in the cells of the body. Babies may show no sign of the disease, but as more and more cells become damaged by the storage of used material, symptoms begin to appear. Sadly these are progressive diseases which lead to an increase in problems as the years go by. EffectsFor each of the MPS and related diseases there is a wide spectrum of severity. The effects also vary from one disease to another. Some individuals may be less severely affected, but for many the diseases cause severe mental and/or physical disabilities. The diseases are progressive and in some cases can lead to death in childhood. Which are the MPS and related diseases Personal stories |
