Late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD), is a lysosomal storage disorder characterized by progressive skeletal and respiratory muscle degeneration. Mortality is typically caused by respiratory failure. In this case series the authors examined the impact of COVID-19 in 4 patients with LOPD. All patients experienced a mild/moderate illness from COVID-19 and did not require hospitalization. Neurological worsening occurred in one; with no change in physical ability in the other three, and respiratory symptoms remained stable in all four. The authors concluded that COVID-19 infection can result in a benign course in some patients with LOPD. However, individuals with LOPD remain at high risk and should receive COVID-19 vaccinations and exercise precautions to avoid exposure to COVID-19 infection.
Avelar J, Wencel M, Chumakova A, Mozaffar T. COVID-19 Infection in Patients with Late-Onset Pompe Disease. Muscle Nerve. 2021 Dec 24.
doi: 10.1002/mus.27482