[Contiguous gene deletion syndrome in Xp21: an unusual form of presentation]
I Sanz-Ruiz1, J R Bretón-Martínez, C Del Castillo-Villaescusa
1Servicio de Pediatría, Hospital Universitario Doctor Peset, Valencia, España.
Insights
This case study highlights contiguous gene deletion syndrome in Xp21, identified in an infant with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and pseudohypertriglyceridemia. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing associated metabolic complications.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe genetic disorder.
- Pseudohypertriglyceridemia can be a presenting symptom in infants.
- Xp21 contiguous gene deletions are rare but serious genetic conditions.
Observation:
- A 7-month-old infant presented with psychomotor retardation and axial hypotonia.
- Elevated creatine phosphokinase (12,829 IU/L) and triglyceride levels were noted.
- Genetic testing revealed a deletion in the dystrophin gene, consistent with DMD.
Findings:
- Further investigations showed high glycerol levels, indicating glycerol kinase deficiency.
- Genetic analysis confirmed a deletion in Xp21 encompassing genes for DMD, glycerol kinase deficiency, congenital adrenal hypoplasia (DAX1), and mental retardation (IL1RAPL1).
Implications:
- Contiguous gene deletion syndrome in Xp21 should be considered in infants with myopathic compromise, elevated creatine phosphokinase, and pseudohypertriglyceridemia.
- Early diagnosis is vital for preventing and treating metabolic complications, particularly those related to adrenal hypoplasia.
- This case underscores the importance of comprehensive genetic evaluation in pediatric patients with complex symptoms.
Introduction:
We report a case of an infant where the association of Duchenne's muscular dystrophy (DMD) and pseudohypertriglyceridaemia led to the diagnosis of contiguous gene deletion syndrome in Xp21.
Case Report:
A 7-month-old male infant who was referred due to psychomotor retardation. The examination revealed pronounced axial hypotonia. Lab findings showed high levels of muscular enzymes with creatine phosphokinase levels of 12,829 IU/L, together with high blood levels of triglycerides. Electromyogram findings were consistent with myopathic compromise. The genetic study for dystrophinopathies revealed the existence of a deletion in the dystrophin gene. Further lab findings identified high glycerol concentrations both in blood and in urine that were compatible with a glycerol kinase deficiency. The genetic study confirmed the existence of a deletion in Xp21 of the genes responsible for DMD, the glycerol kinase deficiency, the congenital adrenal hypoplasia (gene DAX1) and mental retardation (gene IL1RAPL1).
Conclusions:
In infants and small children with myopathic compromise, increased levels of creatine phosphokinase and pseudohypertriglyceridaemia it is essential to take into account contiguous gene deletion syndrome in Xp21 to be able to prevent and treat the metabolic complications arising from adrenal hypoplasia.
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