Disease Information

Brave Community provides comprehensive information on several rare genetic diseases as well as regular updates on the latest news and research in the field. Each section highlights information about a specific disease, related news articles, and a variety of educational resources including case studies, presentations, links and publications that may be helpful in your pursuit of information.

Fabry Disease

Fabry disease is a rare hereditary disease that is characterized by heart, kidney and central nervous system problems as well as acroparesthesia, angiokeratoma, heat intolerance, fatigue, and frequent stomach upset including cramping, diarrhea, and nausea. It is caused by a defect in the lysosomal enzyme alpha-galactosidase A, which normally breaks down globotriaosylceramide (Gb3)

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HAE (Hereditary Angioedema)

One of several types of angioedema, hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare genetic disease characterized by sudden recurrent attacks of edema usually involving the hands, arms, feet, legs, thighs, face, or genitals, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and potentially life-threatening swelling of the larynx. HAE accounts for approximately 2% of all cases of angioedema and attacks are not associated with urticaria or pruritis.

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MLD (Metachromatic Leukodystrophy)

Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is an inherited disorder that causes lipids to accumulate in key cells throughout the body. MLD affects the central and peripheral nervous systems and is characterized by devastating mental deterioration occuring at several different age ranges depending on the type. Some cases progress rapidly to a life-threatening stage within a few years of diagnosis (infantile) while others may progress slowly over a period of 10 or more years (adult).

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Sanfilippo Syndrome (MPS III)

Sanfilippo syndrome, also known as mucopolysaccharidosis III (MPS III), is a rare genetic disease that affects many body systems leading to behavioral problems, deterioration in mental development, and damage to different body organs. It is caused by a defect in the lysosomal enzyme sulfamidase, which normally breaks down glycosaminoglycans (GAG).

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