3-M syndrome - a primordial short stature disorder with novel CUL7 mutation in two Indian patients

Radha Rama Devi Akella1

  • 1Rainbow Children Hospital, Road No 2, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, India.

Insights

3-M syndrome, a rare primordial growth disorder causing severe short stature and skeletal anomalies, was investigated in two children. Genetic analysis identified specific variants, aiding family counseling and prenatal diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Pediatrics
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Short stature in children can stem from various genetic and endocrine factors.
  • Skeletal dysplasias represent a significant category of growth disorders.
  • Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and genetic counseling.

Observation:

  • Two pediatric patients presented with short stature and suspected skeletal dysplasia.
  • Clinical features included severe postnatal growth restriction and characteristic skeletal anomalies.
  • Prominent fleshy heels were noted in affected individuals.

Findings:

  • Whole-exome sequencing identified the genetic cause in both patients.
  • One patient had a compound heterozygous variant, the other a homozygous missense variant.
  • These findings confirm the genetic heterogeneity and phenotypic similarity of 3-M syndrome.

Implications:

  • Genetic diagnosis of 3-M syndrome enables precise family counseling.
  • Prenatal diagnosis is feasible, allowing for informed reproductive decisions.
  • Understanding the genetic basis of primordial growth disorders advances pediatric care.
Abstract

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