A Case of Cardiogenic Stroke With a Novel LMNA Variant (c. 1135C>A; p.Leu379Ile)

Naoki Tokuda1,2, Yukiko Tsuji1, Michio Inoue3

  • 1Department of Neurology, Kyoto Okamoto Memorial Hospital, Kyoto, JPN.

Cureus
|May 22, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Laminopathy, a muscular dystrophy from LMNA gene mutations, can cause cardiac issues and stroke. This case highlights laminopathy as a potential cause of ischemic stroke, particularly in younger adults.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Genetics
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Laminopathy is a group of muscular dystrophies linked to mutations in the LMNA gene.
  • LMNA gene mutations often manifest with cardiac complications, including atrial fibrillation and cardiomyopathy.
  • The condition can present with progressive muscle weakness and joint contractures.

Observation:

  • A 49-year-old woman with a history of limb-girdle muscle weakness, atrial fibrillation, and cardiomyopathy presented with cardiogenic stroke.
  • The patient had a family history of heart disease.
  • Genetic analysis revealed a novel heterozygous variant (c.1135C>A, p.Leu379Ile) in the LMNA gene.

Findings:

  • The identified LMNA gene variant is associated with laminopathy.
  • The patient's clinical presentation, including cardiogenic stroke, is consistent with laminopathy.
  • This case identifies a novel LMNA variant contributing to laminopathy.

Implications:

  • Laminopathy should be considered in the differential diagnosis of ischemic stroke, especially in young to middle-aged individuals.
  • Early genetic testing for LMNA mutations can aid in diagnosing laminopathy and managing associated cardiac risks.
  • Understanding the link between LMNA gene variants and neurological events can improve patient outcomes and genetic counseling.