Society for Mucopolysaccharide Diseases

The Society for Mucopolysaccharide Diseases is a voluntary, international organization in the United Kingdom dedicated to providing information, support, and advocacy services to individuals and families affected by mucopolysaccharide and related diseases. The society was founded in 1982 by a group of parents with children affected by MPS disorders. The mucopolysaccharide diseases (mucopolysaccharidoses) belong to a group of rare metabolic disorders known as lysosomal storage disorders. Lysosomes are particles bound in membranes within cells that break down fats and carbohydrates. The mucopolysaccharidoses are characterized by an abnormal occurrence of certain fatty substances (mucolipids) and/or complex carbohydrates (mucopolysaccharides) within cells of particular tissues of the body. The different forms of MPS disease, such as Hurler syndrome (MPS I), Hunter syndrome (MPS II) etc. are often characterized by multiple abnormalities of the skull and face, growth delays, mental retardation, and/or additional symptoms and findings that may vary in range and severity. In many of these disorders, life-threatening complications may result during childhood. The MPS Society is committed to promoting and supporting research to further the understanding and improve the treatment of MPS disorders, offering networking services to affected families, and providing practical assistance in areas of health, welfare, education, adaptations, and respite care. It has a help line, holds regular national and regional conferences, and provides a variety of educational materials.