Reversal of life-threatening hepatopulmonary syndrome in Gaucher disease by imiglucerase enzyme replacement therapy

Abstract

Advanced liver disease complicated by hepatopulmonary syndrome is a recognized complication of Gaucher disease. Macrophage-targeted, recombinant enzyme replacement therapy is effective in reversing clinical manifestations attributed to the accumulation of glycolipid-laden macrophages but it is not known whether advanced fibrotic features of the disease can be ameliorated. We describe a splenectomized patient with Gaucher disease who developed massive hepatomegaly, cirrhosis of the liver and life-threatening hepatopulmonary syndrome. Treatment with Imiglucerase enzyme replacement therapy resulted in dramatic reversal of hepatopulmonary syndrome and liver disease. Our report suggests that Gaucher disease pathology involving advanced fibrosis and life-threatening complications can be reversed by imiglucerase enzyme therapy. Synopsis: Effect of imiglucerase enzyme replacement therapy on Hepatopulmonary Syndrome in Gaucher Disease. Keywords: Gaucher disease, Hepatopulmonary syndrome, Enzyme replacement therapy, Pulmonary complications