Two newborns with chromosome 4 imbalances: deletion 4q33-->q35 and ring r(4)(pterq35.2-qter)

Two patients are reported who presented with 4q deletion and r(4), respectively. Cytogenetic and FISH analysis defined the breakpoints respectively at bands 4q33-->q35 proximal to the telomere, and 4pter and 4q35.2 qter. Moreover in both cases rearranged chromosomes maintained telomeric sequences. The first patient showed some clinical features of deletion 4q and a pointed 5th finger, a characteristic finding in deletion 4q31-->qter. The second patient had mild dysmorphism associated with growth retardation.