MPS IX, also known at Natowicz syndrome, is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme hyaluronidase, which is required for the degradation of the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) hyaluronan. This GAG is highly expressed in synovial fluid, cartilage and skin, leading to progressive joint manifestations.1,2
MPS IX can present at varying ages with chronic joint pain unresponsive to anti-inflammatory medication.1,2
Observed presentation
Disease progression
Genetic information
Key management considerations
References: 1. Imundo L, LeDuc CA, Guha S, et al. A complete deficiency of Hyaluronoglucosaminidase 1 (HYAL1) presenting as familial juvenile idiopathic arthritis. J Inherit Metab Dis. 2011;34(5):1013-1022. doi:10.1007/s10545-011-9343-3. 2. Natowicz MR, Short MP, Wang Y, et al. Clinical and biochemical manifestations of hyaluronidase deficiency. N Engl J Med. 1996;335(14):1029-1033. doi:10.1111/ped.12636. 3. Triggs-Raine B, Salo TJ, Zhang H, Wicklow BA, Natowicz MR. Mutations in HYAL1, a member of a tandemly distributed multigene family encoding disparate hyaluronidase activities, cause a newly described lysosomal disorder, mucopolysaccharidosis IX. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 1999;96(11):6296-6300.