Alternative Arrangements for Medicines
Notes to radiologists assessing Gaucher Disease patients with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Recommendations for doctors and radiologists assessing patients with Type 1 Gaucher Disease using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
The Medical Genetic Therapy Working Party of the Human Genetic Society of Australia has asked that the following information be forwarded to treating doctors of Gaucher patients to assist in the assessment of these patients by radiologists following an MRI.
In order to assess marrow changes in patients with Type 1 Gaucher disease, who are receiving enzyme replacement therapy, serial MRI's are requested at annual intervals. The aim is to compare features with the previous images to detect changes, which might suggest clearing of the accumulated metabolite from bone marrow cells during the course of therapy. The extent of bone marrow involvement can also be documented according to a set protocol (as outlined in the paper Imaging Strategies for the Evaluation of Gaucher Disease, Michael R. Terk M.D). These measurements provide important objective information for assessing aspects of enzyme replacement therapy such as treatment response and dose required.
1st December 2000
