Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked lysosomal disorder caused by mutations in GLA gene resulting in lack of or faulty α-galactosidase A (α-GalA) enzyme. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with recombinant human α-GalA enzyme (agalsidase) is the standard treatment option for FD. Infusion-related reactions (IRRs), with symptoms ranging from rigors, to fever, pain, vomiting, angioedema and diarrhea, are often seen due to immune response against the exogenous enzyme. To elucidate the mechanisms causing the IRRs in FD, eight patients who developed IRRs were investigated. All, except one, tested negative for agalsidase-specific IgE and had normal tryptase levels. Circulating dendritic cells were drastically reduced during IRRs, suggesting possible sequestration to the sites of inflammation. An increase in NK cells and a decrease in T cells were also observed. Cytokines IL-4, IL-8 and TNF-α showed a significant increase, indicating nonspecific degranulation of mast cells. All IRRs were managed successfully using a combination of standard premedications and mast cell stabilizers without any interruption of therapy. Taken together, the results indicate crosstalk between immune cells resulting in IgE-independent mast-cell-specific allergic inflammation. Mast cell stabilizers could be used to control IRRs and for safe reintroduction of agalsidase in patients previously treated with ERT.
Keywords: Fabry disease; agalsidase; enzyme replacement therapy; infusion-related reactions.