What is Krabbe Disease?

The definition of Krabbe Disease according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke is “a deficiency of galactocerebrosidase, an essential enzyme for myelin metabolism.” It most commonly affects infants but can occur later in one’s life. Approximately 40 babies are diagnosed with this rare condition each year in the United States, and it affects one to 100,000 individuals in this country alone. The mortality rate is as high as 90% in the first two years of life. The late-onset type has a better prognosis, and life expectancy is five to seven years after the onset of symptoms. Krabbe disease is inherited, which means it is passed down through families.