Infantile systemic hyalinosis: a fatal disorder commonly diagnosed among Arabs

S M Al-Mayouf1, A AlMehaidib, S Bahabri

  • 1Section of Pediatric Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, MBC-58, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. mayouf@kfshrc.edu.sa

Insights

Infantile systemic hyalinosis (ISH) is a severe genetic disorder presenting in newborns, often misdiagnosed. This study highlights its high prevalence in Saudi Arabia and among Arab populations, with poor treatment outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Genetics
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Infantile systemic hyalinosis (ISH) is a rare, severe genetic disorder.
  • Clinical presentation often includes joint contractures, mucocutaneous changes, and growth failure.
  • Genetic predisposition, including consanguinity, is noted in affected families.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the clinical characteristics, diagnostic challenges, and outcomes of infantile systemic hyalinosis.
  • To determine the prevalence and commonality of ISH in Saudi Arabia and among Arab populations.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of current management strategies for ISH.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 19 patients diagnosed with ISH at a tertiary care hospital.
  • Analysis of clinical presentations, diagnostic findings, family history, and treatment outcomes.
  • Review of radiological and histopathological data.

Main Results:

  • Most patients (83.3%) presented neonatally, with frequent misdiagnosis (73.7%).
  • Common findings included joint contractures, mucocutaneous lesions, growth failure, and hypoalbuminemia (72%).
  • Aggressive management showed no improvement, with a high mortality rate (16/19 patients).

Conclusions:

  • Infantile systemic hyalinosis is likely underdiagnosed and more common in Saudi Arabia and among Arabs than previously recognized.
  • Current therapeutic interventions are ineffective, emphasizing the need for novel treatment strategies.
  • Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial, despite the progressive nature of the disease.

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