THE SPOT THE EARLY SIGNS OF MLD COURSE PROGRAM

Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) is a rare hereditary disease characterized by the accumulation of fats called sulfatides. This causes the destruction of the protective fatty layer (myelin sheath) surrounding the nerves in both the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system, ultimately affecting intellectual and motor function. Early-onset clinical manifestations are often overlooked or confused with other conditions causing confusion among non-trained HCPs at first contact, resulting in misdiagnosis, wrong referral routes and delays in the early start of treatment. Delays in starting treatment have significant consequences on the conditions’ development, and the patient’s health and quality of life. This delay in referral and treatment must be overcome. 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

✓ Reviewing the main red flags - when you should ‘think rare’    

✓ Identifying the red flags in the caregiver's language used in consultations - peer comparisons and described symptoms    

✓ Using all information available to Spot the Early Signs of MLD - feedback from teachers, nursery, family videos    

✓ Discussing who you can reach out to for support and the next steps to take in the referral process    

✓ Understanding the patient and parent journey - MLD identification, referral and support examples