Current, non-specific treatments for NPC focus mainly on supportive care, aimed toward managing the symptoms of the disease. As such, these treatments have no effect on disease progression or long-term outcomes. Common problems and relevant supportive treatments are listed in Table 5.
| Symptom | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Feeding problems | Most children with NPC eventually require gastrostomy feeding, with monitoring in case of aspiration or nutritional compromise |
| Cataplexy | Tricyclic antidepressants or CNS stimulants can be effective in controlling cataplexy |
| Dystonia and tremor | Some patients respond to anti-cholinergic drugs |
| Movement restriction | Physical therapy is indicated to maintain mobility as long as possible |
| Seizures | Anti-epileptic drugs can control or diminish the frequency of seizures |
| Sleep disorders | Melatonin or a nocturnal sedative may be indicated. In complex cases, formal evaluation by a sleep specialist should be considered |
| Constipation | Patients should have a regular bowel program to prevent severe constipation |
| Lung involvement | Chest physical therapy with aggressive bronchodilation appears beneficial. Antibiotic therapy should be provided in case of intercurrent pulmonary infection |
© 2007 Blackwell Publishing Limited. Reproduced by permission.