Krabbe Disease

Krabbe disease is a rare, degenerative disorder of the central and peripheral nervous systems. It is one of a group of genetic disorders called the leukodystrophies that affect the growth of the myelin sheath, the fatty covering -- which acts as an insulator -- on nerve fibers in the brain.

Symptoms vary in prevalence and severity among patients and may include loss of previously attained developmental skills, unexplained fevers, irritability, myoclonic seizures (sudden, shock-like contractions of the limbs), blindness, spasticity (stiffness of the limbs), and paralysis. Prolonged weight loss may occur also. Onset of the disorder generally occurs at 3 to 6 months of age.

Although there is no cure for Krabbe disease, bone marrow transplantation is being studied as a possible therapy for mild cases early in the course of the disease. Generally, treatment for the disorder is symptomatic and supportive. Physical therapy may help maintain or increase muscle tone and circulation.

The prognosis for individuals with Krabbe disease is poor. The disorder is generally fatal before age 2.

Information provided by the
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health

Each year, Medical College of Wisconsin physicians care for more than 180,000 patients, representing nearly 500,000 patient visits. Medical College physicians practice at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital, the Milwaukee VA Medical Center, and many other hospitals and clinics in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin.