Gaucher Disease Type 2

Gaucher disease type 2 is an inherited metabolic disorder in which harmful quantities of a fatty substance called glucocerebroside accumulate in the spleen, liver, lungs, bone marrow, and brain. Symptoms usually develop by 3 months of age and include brain damage, seizures, abnormal eye movements, poor ability to suck and swallow, and enlargement of the liver and spleen. Many children die by 2 to 4 years of age. Gaucher disease type 2 is caused by mutations in the GBA gene. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. While enzyme replacement therapy is available for some types of Gaucher disease, children with Gaucher disease type 2 generally don't respond to this treatment. Evaluation at a comprehensive center specializing in Gaucher disease and supportive care is appropriate for all affected children.