22q13.3 deletion syndrome: a recognizable malformation syndrome associated with marked speech and language delay

The 22q13.3 deletion syndrome is a recognizable malformation syndrome associated with developmental delay, hypotonia, delayed or absent speech, autistic-like behavior, normal to accelerated growth and dysmorphic facies. The prevalence of this disorder is unknown, but it is likely under-diagnosed. Age at diagnosis has varied widely, from cases diagnosed prenatally to 46 years. Males and females are equally affected. The distal 22q deletion can be detected occasionally by routine or high resolution chromosome analysis; however, the majority of cases are detected by FISH analysis, associated with deletion of the ARSA (control) probe when performing a FISH analysis for the velocardiofacial syndrome (del 22q11.2). The 22q13.3 deletion syndrome can accompany a simple chromosome deletion, an unbalanced translocation, or a ring chromosome. Primary care physicians, in addition to numerous specialists, play an important role in caring for patients with this disorder. Although the dysmorphic features observed in this condition are nonspecific, it is an important consideration in the differential diagnosis of children with developmental delay, hypotonia, marked speech and language disability, autistic-like features, multiple minor anomalies, and normal growth and head circumference.