The Charles Dent Metabolic Unit is one of the largest and longest established services in the world for the treatment of adolescents and adults with inherited metabolic diseases. We are one of the designated national lysosomal storage disease centres. The Unit provides specialist medical, dietetic and nursing advice and has a purpose-built metabolic diet kitchen to support treatment and education of patients. We also have an infusion unit which provides the facilities needed for patients on enzyme replacement and other therapies.
We care for patients with all inborn errors of metabolism in adults for which a treatment is available and, if patients are eligible, can be treated. If no treatment is available then regular review and symptomatic treatment is offered.
In 2008, the Charles Dent Metabolic Unit cared for approximately 1,800 patients.
Patient support is provided by two clinical nurse specialists, two clinical research nurses, three metabolic dietitians and a dietetic assistant. Team members involved with each patient depend on diagnosis, type of treatment and patient need.
Depending on diagnosis, the patient will either attend regular clinic appointments with the metabolic team and with additional referrals to other services if necessary. Alternatively, they may attend The National Hospital on a regular basis for treatment with transfer to either a local service or home nursing service. Ongoing care in the community is via the patient's GP, with regular follow-up appointments with the metabolic medicine consultant. Nursing and dietetic contact will be maintained as necessary.