CHARGE syndrome: genetic aspects and dental challenges, a review and case presentation

CHARGE syndrome (CS) is a rare genetic condition (OMIM #214800). The condition has a variable phenotypic expression. Historically, the diagnosis of CHARGE syndrome was based on the presence of specific clinical criteria. The genetic aetiology of CS has since been elucidated and attributed to pathogenic variation in the CHD7 gene (OMIM 608892) at chromosome locus 8q12.

A South African female of mixed ancestry heritage, aged 4 years, was referred for dental assessment to the Faculty of Dentistry, University of the Western Cape, in 2018. She had a diagnosis of CHARGE syndrome confirmed by a Medical Geneticist from the Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics at the University of Stellenbosch. The patient had a long prior history of health and developmental problems, with the correct diagnosis becoming apparent over time. She presented with many oral and craniofacial features warranting consideration by the dentist including micrognathia, hypoplastic nasal bones, cranial nerve dysfunction, bruxism, craniofacial anomalies and compromised sensory perception. The treatment was mainly preventive and, although she fed through a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube (PEG), maintenance of her oral hygiene was necessitated.

CS is a multisystem condition and the optimal care for an individual is with a specialist multidisciplinary team. The numerous systemic problems affecting these individuals take precedence in their care, and often there is neglect of their dental concerns. Given the abnormalities frequently present in the oral and craniofacial region, the authors recommend that a team of dental and other medical specialists be involved in the management of individuals with CS.