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Muckle-Wells syndrome in the setting of basal cell nevus syndrome
Marie Wagener1, Joseph W Laskas2, Stephen Purcell3
1Aesthetic Surgery Associates, Allentown, Pennsylvania, USA.
Abstract:
Muckle-Wells syndrome (MWS) is a rare disorder inherited in an autosomal-dominant fashion that belongs to a group of hereditary periodic fever syndromes. It specifically belongs to the cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes (CAPSs) in which there is a mutation in the NLRP3 (NLR family pyrin domain containing 3) gene that leads to overproduction of IL-1β, the source of the multisystem inflammatory symptoms. Muckle-Wells syndrome is characterized by a recurrent urticarial eruption that is associated with episodic fever, myalgia, arthralgia, malaise, progressive sensorineural hearing loss, and amyloid nephropathy (the most severe complication). Basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS), or Gorlin syndrome, is a rare, autosomal-dominant inherited genodermatosis linked to a mutation in the PTCH1 (patched 1) gene and is characterized by a broad range of anomalies. We report the case of a patient with MWS and BCNS in whom basal cell carcinoma (BCC) treatment was complicated by symptoms of MWS.
Insights
Muckle-Wells syndrome (MWS) and Gorlin syndrome (BCNS) are rare genetic disorders. This case highlights MWS symptom exacerbation during basal cell carcinoma treatment in a patient with both conditions.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Immunology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Muckle-Wells syndrome (MWS) is an autosomal-dominant hereditary periodic fever syndrome caused by NLRP3 mutations, leading to IL-1β overproduction and systemic inflammation.
- Basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS), or Gorlin syndrome, is an autosomal-dominant genodermatosis linked to PTCH1 mutations, presenting with diverse anomalies.
Observation:
- A patient with co-existing Muckle-Wells syndrome and Basal cell nevus syndrome presented with complications during basal cell carcinoma treatment.
- The treatment for basal cell carcinoma in this patient triggered or exacerbated symptoms characteristic of Muckle-Wells syndrome.
Findings:
- This case illustrates a complex interaction between two distinct autosomal-dominant genetic disorders.
- The inflammatory response in Muckle-Wells syndrome was notably affected by the management of basal cell carcinoma, a condition associated with Basal cell nevus syndrome.
Implications:
- Understanding these interactions is crucial for managing patients with multiple rare genetic conditions.
- This case underscores the need for careful monitoring and tailored treatment strategies in individuals with overlapping syndromes like MWS and BCNS.
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