Cornelia de Lange syndrome: What should a dermatologist know?

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a complex genetic disorder affecting multiple body systems. It is characterized by distinctive facial features, skeletal anomalies, neurological and developmental impairments, physiological cutaneous manifestations such as hirsutism and synophrys, and numerous other signs and symptoms. Among affected individuals, the clinical presentation of CdLS varies widely, ranging from relatively mild to severe forms. Additionally, CdLS increases the frequency of certain dermatoses, including cutaneous bacterial infections and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. Six genes have been identified in association with CdLS: NIPBL (Nipped-B-like protein), RAD21 (double-strand break repair protein rad21 homolog), SMC1A and SMC3 (structural maintenance of chromosomes 1A and 3), BRD4 (bromodomain-containing protein 4), and HDAC8 (histone deacetylase 8). Cornelia de Lange syndrome is estimated to occur in 1 out of every 10,000-30,000 live births, making it a rare condition and posing diagnostic challenges due to its low incidence. The present review aims to raise awareness of CdLS among dermatologists by providing a brief overview of the syndrome and summarizing the current literature on its dermatological manifestations.