Consensus-based expert recommendations on the management of MPS IVa and VI in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background Mucopolysaccharidosis type IVa (Morquio A syndrome) and mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome) are rare inherited lysosomal storage diseases associated with significant functional impairment and a wide spectrum of debilitating clinical manifestations. These conditions are thought to have higher-than-average prevalence rates in Saudi Arabia due to high rates of consanguineous marriage in the country. There are several unmet needs associated with the management of these diseases in Saudi Arabia. Main body The aim of this manuscript is to contextualize unmet management needs and provide recommendations to optimize diagnosis, multidisciplinary care delivery, and local data generation in this disease area. An expert panel was assembled comprising seven consultant geneticists from across Saudi Arabia. The Delphi methodology was used to obtain a consensus on statements relating to several aspects of mucopolysaccharidosis types IVa and VI. A consensus was reached for all statements by means of an online, anonymized voting system. The consensus statements pertain to screening and diagnosis, management approaches, including recommendations pertaining to enzyme replacement therapy, and local data generation. Conclusion The consensus statements presented provide specific recommendations to improve diagnostic and treatment approaches, promote multidisciplinary care and data sharing, and optimize the overall management of these rare inherited diseases in Saudi Arabia.