Challenging clinical management of a patient with Gaucher disease type IIIC homozygous for the D409H mutation, aortic valve calcification and porcelain aorta.

Background: Gaucher disease is a rare lysosomal storage disorder caused by glucocerebrosidase enzyme deficiency resulting in the cumulative deposition of glucocerebroside in macrophages, predominantly effecting bone marrow, liver and spleen. Gaucher disease type IIIC is a rare subtype that is characterized by cardiovascular involvement, eye-movement disorders, and late-onset neurological symptoms.

Case presentation: We present a 14-year-old adolescent boy diagnosed with Gaucher disease type IIIC at age four with a homozygous D409H mutation who developed severe aortic valve stenosis, extensive aortic calcification and a porcelain aorta despite enzyme replacement treatment since the diagnosis. Despite the challenges during the cardiac surgery, we successfully performed transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The patient developed a complete atrioventricular block and required a pacemaker after the TAVI. He experienced further complications during the follow-up.

Conclusion: The case presents the challenges in the treatment of cardiovascular complications in patients with Gaucher disease and demonstrates the importance of individualized treatment approaches, as well as the potential advantages and complications of TAVI in difficult situations like this.