An Important Message for the Jewish Community

What Is Gaucher
Disease and Who
Can Be Affected?

(pronounced go-shay)

Gaucher disease is an inherited disorder caused
by a deficient form of an important enzyme called
glucocerebrosidase. This enzyme is needed for
the breakdown of a type of fatty substance
(glucocerebroside) that can build up in cells,
especially in the spleen, liver, and bone marrow.
People who have inherited a mutation (change)
in the gene that produces glucocerebrosidase can
be affected by the symptoms of Gaucher disease.
Certain groups, such as families of Jewish descent,
are at a higher risk of inheriting Gaucher disease.
A simple blood test can determine if a person is
at risk.
• An enzyme deficiency in glucocerebrosidase
results in the accumulation of a fatty substance
in the spleen, liver, and bone marrow

If you believe you or someone you
know may be affected by Gaucher
disease, please contact us at:

I-800-981.9954

The National Gaucher Foundation (NGF)
11140 Rockville Pike, Suite 350
Rockville, MD 20852-3106

Help Is
Available

• Testing is important because Gaucher disease
can be misdiagnosed as leukemia or arthritis

Symptoms Include:

• Fatigue

• Anemia

• Easily fractured bones

• Bleeding problems such as
nosebleeds and easy bruising

• Enlarged spleen or liver

• Bone pain

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A world of hope for families and
individuals with Gaucher Disease

Shou
Know
About
Gaucher

Disease