Plasma exchange therapy for familial chylomicronemia syndrome in infant: A case report

Lei Han1, Guangfeng Qiang1, Lei Yang1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China.

Medicine
|August 12, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS) is a rare genetic disorder. This case highlights early diagnosis via genetic testing and successful plasma exchange therapy in an infant, showing good outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Pediatrics
  • Metabolic Disorders

Background:

  • Familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS) is a rare genetic disorder with early onset, often presenting in childhood or infancy.
  • Genetic mutations, particularly in the lipoprotein lipase gene, underlie FCS, leading to severe hypertriglyceridemia.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing FCS and preventing complications.

Observation:

  • A male infant presented with recurrent hematochezia and hyperchylomicronemia at just over one month old.
  • The infant exhibited symptoms consistent with severe hypertriglyceridemia, necessitating prompt evaluation.
  • Clinical presentation in infancy underscores the potential for early-onset FCS.

Findings:

  • Genetic testing confirmed FCS and identified a novel mutation (c.88C>A) in the lipoprotein lipase gene, consistent with autosomal recessive inheritance.
  • Plasma exchange therapy was employed as an intervention for the infant's hyperchylomicronemia.
  • The infant showed normal development, weight gain, and resolution of hematochezia post-intervention.

Implications:

  • Genetic testing is vital for accurate diagnosis of FCS, especially in infants with suggestive symptoms.
  • Plasma exchange therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for infants diagnosed with FCS.
  • This case contributes to understanding FCS in infancy and the management of this rare genetic disorder.
Abstract