Specialist information: cardiologist

Cardiac involvement is present in nearly all  MPS II patients and is a major cause of death in this population.1,2 Cardiac disease can present as early as 5 years of age and most patients exhibit at least one cardiovascular sign or symptom by the second decade of life.1,3

Cardiology implications of Hunter syndrome (MPS II)

Pathophysiology

There is primary glycosaminoglycan storage in the cardiac tissue, mainly in the activated valvular interstitial cells.4 These cells are normally involved in maintaining valvular structure and integrity and mediating response to injury, however, in MPS II these cells appear to be engaged in attempted, but ineffective, valve repair. 4

Clinical Consequences

Congestive heart failure, systemic hypertension, valve disease, arrhythmia, and instances of sudden cardiovascular collapse are commonly seen as a result of the structural and functional cardiac abnormalities in MPS II patients.3,5 Mitral regurgitation is the most common valvular disease in MPS II for the severe phenotype.5 Before any surgery, a full cardiac assessment is required. 3

Management

If indicated, regular echocardiography, 12-lead electrocardiography and Holter monitoring should be considered at the discretion of the cardiologist, typically every 1–3 years, in order to monitor ventricular size and function.2,5 Hypertension, which is typically underdiagnosed in MPS II patients, may be treated with standard agents, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, diuretics and calcium-channel blockers.3

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Multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach - cardiology

Professor Joseph Muenzer explains the key findings linked to cardiac valve disease from the Hunter Outcome Survey (HOS).

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Learn more: resources for cardiologists

MATERIALS

Cardiologist’s guide to Hunter syndrome

Download a Hunter syndrome guide designed for cardiologists.

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Hunter syndrome YouTube channel

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References:  1. Martin R et al. Pediatrics 2008; 121(2): e377–386.  2. Muenzer J et al. Pediatrics 2009; 124(6): e1228–1239.  3. Scarpa M et al. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2011; 6: 72.  4. Muenzer J Mol Genet Metab 2014; 111(2): 63-72.  5. Neufeld EF, Muenzer J. In: Scriver CR et al (Eds). The Metabolic and Molecular Basis of Inherited Disease. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2001: 3421-3452.

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