Chromosome 16p13.11 Microdeletion Syndrome in a Newborn: A Case Study

Chromosome 16p13.11 microdeletion syndrome is a rare copy number variant that carries increased risks for complications in the neonatal period and throughout the life span. Clinical manifestations and associated defects known to present in the neonatal period include motor delay, facial dysmorphisms, microcephaly, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and congenital heart defects. Management in the neonatal period focuses on associated comorbidities, including motor delay with or without GERD, which commonly manifests as feeding difficulties. Life span implications of chromosome 16p13.11 microdeletion syndrome include developmental, speech, and language delay; psychiatric and behavioral problems; seizure disorders; and, less commonly, obesity. Nursing assessment is critical to the early identification of nonspecific abnormalities associated with de novo genetic disorders. Early identification and diagnosis of chromosome 16p13.11 microdeletion syndrome are critical to optimizing outcomes throughout infancy and across the life span. We present a case report of an infant diagnosed with chromosome 16p13.11 microdeletion. A discussion of genetic influences, associated clinical manifestations, diagnostics, management, and health promotion strategies are presented to establish core knowledge of chromosome 16p13.11 microdeletion.