IntroductionFabry disease is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by a deficiency of α-galactosidase A. Symptoms include neuropathic pain and gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhoea. To inform and support the design of a Phase III clinical trial for a new oral treatment for Fabry disease, this study evaluated patients’ experiences of Fabry disease symptoms, the impact of symptoms on their quality of life, and their views on participating in clinical trials.MethodsAn online survey questionnaire was distributed to patients with Fabry disease, through relevant patient organisations. The questionnaire consisted mainly of quantitative, closed questions with pre-defined response options. Fabry-specific pain intensity and its impact on quality of life were rated on a scale from 0 to 10.ResultsIn total, 367 patients completed the survey, of whom half reported frequent pain, moderate to severe pain, and pain in their hands and feet. Pain frequency, intensity and location were similar for males and females. There was no clear association between Fabry-specific pain and the use of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), with moderate to severe pain reported by 80.4% of participants receiving ERT and by 75.0% of participants not receiving ERT. Of participants who were receiving ERT, 35.7% said they were willing to discontinue it to take part in a clinical trial testing a new oral drug for treating Fabry disease. Gastrointestinal symptoms were more heterogeneous in nature and frequency than Fabry-specific pain, but still affected a significant proportion of participants.ConclusionsBoth male and female patients with Fabry disease experience significant Fabry-specific pain, which affects their quality of life. Furthermore, frequent diarrhoea affects many patients. The symptoms occur independently of the use of ERT. This suggests the healthcare needs of patients with Fabry disease are not being fully met, and additional treatments are required to improve symptoms and quality of life.FundingThis study was sponsored by Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd. Study sponsorship was transferred to Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Ltd in July 2018.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (10.1007/s12325-019-01061-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Fabry disease is an X linked disorder of metabolism due to deficient a-galactosidase A activity. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with agalsidase Beta was approved by EMA in FDA in 2003. Patients and methods: Six patients were enrolled. Baseline data was measured for renal, cardiac, and cerebrovascular functioning. We compared baseline quality of life scales with the current results. These parameters were assessed during the 10 years of follow-up period.Results: Before ERT four patients showed normal eGFR, one stage 2 of CKD, and one hyperfiltration stage. All presented microalbuminuria and just two cases showed proteinuria. After 10 years of ERT, no patient showed decrease in renal functioning. One patient decreased from proteinuria to microalbuminuria range. Before treatment one case showed left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy and LV Mass Index was abnormal in two female patients. After 10 years echocardiographic values did not present progression to LVH and one female showed regression to normal values of LV posterior wall and interventricular septum. Brain MRI showed ischemic lesions in one female and vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia in one male. From baseline and during the follow-up period MRI did not progress to new ischemic lesions and there were no clinical signs of cerebrovascular damage. After 10 years quality of life showed improvement in all domains measured.Conclusion: Early treatment of agalsidase Beta is related to a better outcome regarding stability and regression of signs and symptoms in Fabry disease. Our results in patients with mild organ involvement showed good outcomes and support an early and continuous ERT.

No abstract

No abstract