Abstract
Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked disorder of
glycosphingolipids caused by
mutations of the GLA
gene. The classical form presents with
neuropathic pain and gastrointestinal complaints since childhood or
adolescence and progressing into adulthood with
ischemic stroke, cardiac dysfunction, and
chronic kidney disease.
Depression seems to be a frequent complication of FD but its frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. Comorbid
depression in different
chronic diseases has been associated with an overall increase in
disease burden and medical
costs, impairment in
activities of daily living, and impact on
self-care and
treatment adherence. In addition, a clear
association between
pain and
depression has been observed in FD
patients and appears to have an unequivocal neurobiological matrix. The aim of this
review is to provide an overview of the
literature on
depression in
patients with FD and to highlight some of the emerging issues on this topic. Further
research to improve
detection and to develop effective
treatments for
depression in this
population is promptly needed.