Adrenoleukodystrophy: Half a match works as well to treat this rare disease

Aqil Fahmi (left) and Muhamad Faaeq both have the rare and previously-fatal X-linked disease adrenoleukodystrophy, but are able to live a normal life now, thanks to the innovation of haploidentical stem cell transplantation. — Prof Dr HANY ARIFFIN

For decades, families facing a diagnosis of adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) in their young sons have confronted a devastating reality.

This uncommon genetic disorder progressively destroys the protective fatty (myelin) sheath surrounding nerve and brain cells, often leading to rapid neurological decline and early death.