What parts of the body are affected by Fabry disease?

Fabry disease can affect many parts of the body. Pain can be experienced all over the body, though can be more severe in the hands and feet. Angiokeratomas (red/purple spots) can be found on the skin and is a common characteristic of Fabry disease. Individuals may experience gastrointestinal upset as well as vision and hearing impairments. Lungs can be affected whereby the patients may experience shortness of breath. Heart complications occur when glycolipids accumulate in different heart cells and may lead to increased risk of heart disease. Excess build-up of a particular type of fat called globotriaosylceramide (GL-3) in the body’s cells can disrupt the normal blood flow in the brain. Consequently, individuals may experience weakness, head pain, dizziness and stroke.

For further information on Fabry disease and which parts of the body are affected visit: https://www.fabry.com.au