Kara Bakke

Chronic lower extremity edema is common among people with Fabry disease. This type of swelling occurs because of fluid buildup and may range from mild to pitting — when the swollen skin is pressed and an indentation remains. Before I began receiving intravenous enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) for Fabry in a 2002 clinical trial, the edema in my legs, feet, and ankles was severe. I developed varicose veins and cracked, tight skin and faced a higher risk of infection.