Treatment of Alport Syndrome
Although there is no one specific treatment for Alport syndrome, the goals of treatment include monitoring and controlling progression of the disease and treating the symptoms. Strict control of blood pressure is very important in order to keep the kidneys as healthy as possible. Research suggests that ACE inhibitors, angiotensins, and statins can help reduce proteinuria and the progression of kidney disease. However, treatment of chronic kidney failure often becomes necessary. This can include dietary modifications and fluid restriction. Ultimately, chronic kidney failure progresses to end-stage kidney disease, requiring dialysis or transplantation. Kidney transplantation in people with Alport syndrome is usually successful, but some studies have reported that about 10% of transplanted patients develop inflammation of the kidneys (nephritis).
Treatment for other aspects of the condition are addressed as needed. For instance, surgical repairs of the eye manifestations may be recommended. Loss of hearing is likely to be permanent, but affected individuals can be assisted with hearing aids. Counseling and education to increase coping skills can be helpful. Learning new skills such as lip reading or sign language may be of some benefit. Young men with Alport syndrome should use hearing protection in noisy environments. Genetic counseling may be recommended to explain the inherited pattern of the disorder, the development of kidney failure in people with Alport Syndrome.