Atypical presentations of Wolframs syndrome
S Saran1, R Philip, Pp Patidar
1Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, LLRM Medical College, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism
|April 9, 2013
Summary
Wolfram syndrome (DIDMOAD) presents with diverse symptoms beyond classic diabetes and vision loss. This study highlights less common neurobehavioral and endocrine issues, emphasizing the syndrome's varied manifestations.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Genetics
Background:
- Wolfram syndrome, also known as DIDMOAD, is a rare neurodegenerative disorder.
- Classic symptoms include diabetes, optic atrophy, central diabetes insipidus, and deafness.
- Atypical presentations are less understood but crucial for diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present three cases of Wolfram syndrome with atypical manifestations.
- To broaden the understanding of the syndrome's diverse clinical spectrum.
- To emphasize the importance of recognizing less common symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Case study analysis of three patients with Wolfram syndrome.
- Detailed clinical evaluation of presenting symptoms and medical history.
- Review of literature on Wolfram syndrome and its genetic basis.
Main Results:
- Case 1: A 15-year-old boy presented with depression and suicidal tendencies.
- Case 2: A 17-year-old boy showed delayed puberty due to hypogonadism.
- Case 3: A 23-year-old female experienced sudden vision loss with vitreous hemorrhage.
Conclusions:
- Wolfram syndrome exhibits varied manifestations beyond the typical diabetes and optic atrophy.
- Neuropsychiatric symptoms like depression and endocrine dysfunctions such as hypogonadism are significant.
- Recognizing these atypical presentations is vital for comprehensive patient care and management.
Related Concept Videos
Pleiotropy
Pleiotropy is the phenomenon in which a single gene impacts multiple, seemingly unrelated phenotypic traits. For example, defects in the SOX10 gene cause Waardenburg Syndrome Type 4, or WS4, which can cause defects in pigmentation, hearing impairments, and an absence of intestinal contractions necessary for elimination. This diversity of phenotypes results from the expression pattern of SOX10 in early embryonic and fetal development. SOX10 is found in neural crest cells that form melanocytes,...
Toxidromes: Clinical Features
Toxidromes are specific patterns of symptoms resulting from toxic substance exposure. They help in the identification and treatment of poisoning. The symptoms of each toxidrome group indicate poisoning by a certain class of chemicals or drugs.1. Sympathomimetic: Stimulates the sympathetic nervous system. Symptoms include agitation, increased heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), respiratory rate (RR), temperature, and pupil size. Drugs like cocaine and amphetamines, along with tremors and...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease IV: Clinical Manifestations
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses two major chronic disorders—ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease—each characterized by relapsing episodes of gastrointestinal inflammation. Although they share certain clinical features, their patterns of involvement and manifestations differ in ways that aid diagnosis and guide management.Ulcerative ColitisUlcerative colitis is limited to the colon and rectum and involves continuous inflammation of the mucosal layer. The disease course is marked...
Sex-linked Disorders
Like autosomes, sex chromosomes contain a variety of genes necessary for normal body function. When a mutation in one of these genes results in biological deficits, the disorder is considered sex-linked.
Atherosclerosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Tests
Atherosclerosis is a progressive disorder that leads to the thickening and narrowing of arterial walls due to plaque buildup. This condition can cause various symptoms depending on the arteries affected:Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): This condition affects the coronary arteries and may lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath (dyspnea), heart attacks, and other heart disease symptoms.Cerebrovascular Disease: This affects blood flow to the brain, causing transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...

