Impact of ERT and follow-up of 17 patients from the same family with a mild form of MPS II

Abstract Background: Mucopolysaccharidosis type II, also known as Hunter syndrome, is a rare X-linked recessive disorder caused by deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme Iduronate-2- Sulfatase (IDS), leading to progressive accumulation of Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in several organs. Over the years, Enzyme Replacement Therapy (ERT) has provided significant benefits for patients, retarding the natural progression of the disease. Results: The authors evaluated 17 patients from the same family with a mild form of MPS type II; the proband had developed acute decompensated heart failure refractory to clinical measurements at 23 years and needed a rather urgent heart transplant; however, he died from surgical complications shortly after the procedure. Nevertheless, subsequent to his tragic death, 16 affected male relatives were detected after biochemical tests identifying the low or absent activity of the IDS enzyme and confirmed by molecular analysis of the IDS gene. Following diagnosis, different options of treatment were chosen: 6 patients started ERT with Elaprase® (Idursulfase) soon after, while the other 10 remained without ERT. Eventually, 4 patients in the latter group began ERT with Hunterase® (Idursulfase Beta). None presented adverse effects to either form of the enzyme. Among the 6 individuals without any ERT, two died of natural causes, after reaching 70 years. Despite the variable phenotype within the same family (mainly heart dysfunctions and carpal tunnel syndrome), all 14 remaining patients were alive with an independent lifestyle. Conclusion: Here, the authors report the variable progress of the disease with and without ERT in a large Brazilian family with a slowly progressive form of MPS II, harboring the same missense variant in the IDS gene.

Novel rearrangements between different chromosomes with direct impact on the diagnosis of 5p- syndrome

Abstract Objectives Copy Number Variations (CNVs) in the human genome account for common populational variations but can also be responsible for genetic syndromes depending on the affected region. Although a deletion in 5p is responsible for a syndrome with highly recognizable phenotypical features, other chromosomal abnormalities might overlap phenotypes, especially considering that most studies in 5p use traditional cytogenetic techniques and not molecular techniques. Methods The authors have investigated 29 patients with clinical suspicion of 5p- syndrome using Chromosomal Microarray (CMA), and have gathered information on previous tests, clinical signs, symptoms, and development of the patients. Results The results showed 23 pure terminal deletions, one interstitial deletion, one deletion followed by a 3 Mb duplication in 5p, three cases of 5p deletion concomitant to duplications larger than 20 Mb in chromosomes 2, 9, and 18, and one 5p deletion with a chromosome Y deletion. CMA showed relevant CNVs not typically associated with 5p- that may have contributed to the final phenotype in these patients. Conclusions The authors have identified three novel rearrangements between chromosomes 5 and 2 (Patient 27), 5 and 18 (Patient 11), and 5 and Y (Patient 22), with breakpoints and overlapped phenotypes that were not previously described. The authors also highlight the need for further molecular investigation using CMA, in different chromosomes beyond chromosome 5 (since those cases did not show only the typical deletion expected for the 5p- syndrome) to explain discordant chromosomal features and overlapped phenotypes to unravel the cause of the syndrome in atypical cases. HIGHLIGHTS The authors The authors have described three novel rearrangements between chromosomes 5 and 2, 5 and 18, and 5 and Y with chromosomal breakpoints and overlapped phenotypes that were not previously described. One of the main atypical features for 5p- syndrome that the authors report was the presence of seizures that was found in the three patients with rearrangements between different chromosomes and in a patient with a deletion followed by duplication in 5p. The authors suggest physicians conduct further molecular investigation in the presence of atypical clinical features for patients with 5p- syndrome suspicion.

O perfil audiológico e a funcionalidade coclear na síndrome de Williams / Audiological profile and cochlear functionality in Williams syndrome

RESUMO Objetivo avaliar o perfil audiológico e a funcionalidade coclear em indivíduos com SW. Método estudo com 39 indivíduos, sendo 22 indivíduos com SW com idade entre 7 e 17 anos, sendo 15 do sexo masculino e 7 do sexo feminino e 17 indivíduos com desenvolvimento típico e normo-ouvintes. Todos os indivíduos foram avaliados por meio da audiometria tonal limiar, medidas de imitância acústica e análise das Emissões Otoacústicas Transientes (EOAT). Foi avaliado o perfil audiológico dos indivíduos com SW, e também foram comparadas as respostas das EOAT entre os indivíduos com SW sem perda auditiva e indivíduos controles. Resultados perda auditiva foi observada em 50% dos pacientes, sendo 78,95% neurossensorial e 21,05% mista. Esta perda foi predominantemente de grau leve a moderado, acometendo principalmente as frequências a partir de 3 kHz. Quanto às EOAT, observou-se maior incidência de ausência e de respostas de menor amplitude em indivíduos com SW. Conclusão indivíduos com SW apresentam disfunção das células ciliadas, principalmente da região basal da cóclea. Assim, a análise das EOAT é um recurso clínico importante a ser considerada na avaliação audiológica de rotina.

ABSTRACT Purpose to evaluate cochlear functionality in Williams syndrome (WS) individuals. Methods a study with 39 individuals, being 22 with WS aged between 7 and 17 years, 15 male and 7 female, and 17 individuals with typical development and normal hearing. All individuals were evaluated using pure tone audiometry, acoustic immittance measurements, and Transient Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions (TEOAE). The audiological profile in individuals with WS was analyzed, and TEOAE responses were compared between WS individuals without hearing loss and typical developmental individuals. Results The hearing loss was observed in 50% of patients, being 78.95% sensorineural and 21.05% mixed. This hearing loss was predominantly mild to moderate, affecting mainly frequencies above 3 kHz. As for TEOAE, there was a higher incidence of absence and lower amplitude responses in individuals with WS. Conclusion WS individuals have hair cell dysfunction, mainly in the basal region of the cochlea. Thus, TEOAE analysis is an important clinical resource to be considered in the routine audiological evaluation.

Audiological profile of individuals with Cornelia de Lange syndrome: an integrative review / Perfil audiológico de indivíduos com síndrome de Cornelia de Lange: revisão integrativa da literatura

ABSTRACT Purpose: to describe the audiological profile of patients with Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) in an integrative review of the literature. Methods: after developing the research question, articles were searched in six databases (EMBASE, ISI of Knowledge, LILACS, MEDLINE/PubMed, SciELO, and Scopus) and in sources of information (Google Scholar, OpenGrey, and ProQuest), with the following descriptors: audiology, hearing loss, deafness, hearing disorders, and Cornelia de Lange syndrome. This review was registered in Prospero under number CRD42020191481. National and international studies were considered for analysis, using the PECO acronym. The risk of bias in the studies was analyzed with Joanna Briggs Institute protocols. Then, the studies were described and analyzed. Results: of the 1,080 articles found, 12 met the inclusion criteria. Audiological results showed that individuals with CdLS can have hearing loss - conductive hearing losses were the most frequent impairments, corresponding to 49.20% of individuals with CdLS assessed, followed by sensorineural hearing losses (13.49%). The degrees of hearing loss ranged from mild to profound. Conclusion: individuals presented with CdLS often have hearing loss, mainly due to middle ear changes, with degrees ranging from mild to profound.

RESUMO Objetivo: descrever o perfil audiológico de pacientes com Síndrome de Cornelia de Lange (SCdL), por meio de uma revisão integrativa da literatura. Métodos: após formulação da pergunta, realizou-se uma busca em seis bases de dados (Embase, ISI of Knowledge, Lilacs, Medline/PubMed, Scielo e Scopus), e fontes de informação (Google Acadêmico, OpenGrey e Proquest), com os descritores: audiologia, perda auditiva, surdez, transtornos da audição e Síndrome de Cornelia de Lange. Esta revisão foi cadastrada no Próspero, sob número CRD42020191481. Foram considerados para análise, estudos nacionais e internacionais, utilizando o direcionamento do acrônimo PECO. Para análise do risco de viés dos estudos, utilizou-se os protocolos do Instituto Joanna Briggs. Após isso, os estudos foram descritos e analisados. Resultados: dos 1.080 artigos encontrados, 12 atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Nos resultados audiológicos, constatou-se que indivíduos com SCdL podem apresentar perda auditiva, sendo que o comprometimento pela perda auditiva condutiva foi o mais frequente, correspondendo a 49,20% dos indivíduos com SCdL avaliados, seguido pela perda auditiva neurossensorial (13,49%). O grau de perda auditiva variou de leve à profundo. Conclusão: indivíduos com SCdL frequentemente apresentam perda auditiva, decorrente principalmente de alterações de orelha média, com graus variando de leve a profundo.

Nationwide questionnaire data of 229 Williams-Beuren syndrome patients using WhatsApp tool / Resultados de um questionário nacional de 229 pacientes com síndrome de Williams-Beuren obtidos por WhatsApp

ABSTRACT Background: Williams-Beuren syndrome is a multisystemic disorder caused by a microdeletion of the 7q11.23 region. Although familial cases with autosomal dominant inheritance have been reported, the vast majority are sporadic. Objective: To investigate the main complaints and clinical findings of patients with Williams-Beuren syndrome. Methods: A total of 757 parents of patients registered in the Brazilian Association of Williams-Beuren Syndrome (ABSW) received a questionnaire via WhatsApp from March to July 2017. Results: In total, 229 parents answered the survey. Age of diagnosis ranged from 2 days to 34 years (median: 3 years). The main clinical findings reported by the parents were abdominal colic (83.3%), failure to thrive (71.5%), feeding difficulty in the first year (68.9%), otitis (56.6%), urinary tract infections (31.9%), precocious puberty (27.1%) and scoliosis (15.9%). Cardiac defects were present in 66% of patients, and the most frequent defect was supravalvular aortic stenosis (36%). Arterial hypertension was reported in 23%. Hypercalcemia was reported in 10.5% of patients, mainly during the first year of life. Hyperacusis and hypersociability were common complaints (both present in 89%). Other behavioral and neuropsychiatric symptoms reported by the parents included attention deficit (89%), anger crises (83%), excessive fear (66%), depression (64%), anxiety (67%) and hypersexuality (33%). The most common complaints were hypersensitivity to sounds, talkative personality, emotional dependence and learning difficulties. In 98.3%, the parents denied family history. Conclusions: Williams-Beuren syndrome requires close follow-up with different medical specialties due to their variable clinical comorbidities, including language and school learning difficulties, behavioral and psychiatric problems.

RESUMO Antecedentes: A síndrome de Williams-Beauren é doença de acometimento multisistêmico causado pela microdeleção da região 7q11.23. Apesar de haver casos familiares com herança autossômica dominante, a grande maioria dos casos é esporádica. Objetivo: Investigar as principais queixas e achados clínicos da síndrome. Métodos: 757 pais de pacientes inscritos na Associação Brasileira de Síndrome de Williams-Beuren (ABSW) receberam um questionário pelo WhatsApp, entre março e julho de 2017. Resultados: 229 pais de pacientes responderam à pesquisa. A idade de diagnóstico variou de 2 dias até 34 anos (mediana: 3 anos). Os principais achados reportados pelos pais: cólicas abdominais (83,3%), deficiência ponderoestatural (71,5%), dificuldade de alimentação no primeiro ano (68,9%), otite (56,6%), infecções do trato urinário (31,9%), puberdade precoce (27,1%) e escoliose (15,9%). Cardiopatias estavam presentes em 66%, sendo que a mais frequente era a estenose pulmonar supravalvar (36%). Hipertensão arterial foi reportada em 23%. Hipercalcemia foi reportada em 10,5%, principalmente no primeiro ano de vida. Hiperacusia e hiperssociabilidade foram achados comuns (89%). Os principais achados comportamentais e psiquiátricos reportados pelos pais foram: déficit de atenção (89%), crises de raiva (83%), medo excessivo (66%), depressão (64%), ansiedade (67%) e hiperssexualidade (33%). As queixas principais referidas foram hipersensibilidade a sons, personalidade excessivamente amigável, dependência emocional e dificuldades escolares. Em 98,3% dos casos os pais negaram história familial. Conclusões: A síndrome de Williams-Beuren é requer um seguimento e manejo estritos, com diferentes especialidades médicas devido às comorbidades clínicas variadas, que incluem dificuldades de linguagem e aprendizagem escolar, além de dificuldades comportamentais e psiquiátricas.

Intellectual performance profi le of a sample of children and adolescents from Brazil with 22q11. 2 Deletion Syndrome (22q11. 2DS) based on the Wechsler Scale / Perfil de desempenho intelectual de uma amostra brasileira de crianças e adolescentes com Síndrome da Deleção 22q11. 2 (22q11. 2DS)com base na Escala Wechsler

The 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome (22q11.2DS), the most common human chromosome microdeletion syndrome, is associated with a very heterogeneous neurocognitive phenotype. One of the main characteristics of the syndrome spectrum is the intellectual variability, which encompasses average performance and intellectual disability and discrepancies between Verbal Intelligence Quotient and Performance Verbal Intelligence Quotient, with greater impairment in nonverbal tasks. The present study aimed at investigating the intellectual performance aspects of a 21children and adolescents sample from Brazil who had been diagnosed with 22q11.2DS, based on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children - 4th edition. The samples were reviewed considering the differences between indices. The results revealed an Full Scale Intelligence Quotient predominant in the borderline range (42 to 104) and a significant discrepancy between the indices of Verbal Comprehension and Perceptual Reasoning in 42% of the sample. With regard to the performance in the subtests alone, a better performance was found in Similarities, whereas block design, matrix reasoning, digit span and letter-number sequencing subtests were the most challenging. These findings indicate that a comprehensive assessment of intellectual performance aspects covering the different measures of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale may contribute to a broader understanding of the neurocognitive phenotype associated with 22q11.2DS.

A Síndrome da Deleção 22q11.2 (SD22q11.2), microdeleção cromossômica mais frequente em humanos, é associada a um fenótipo neurocognitivo muito heterogêneo. Uma das principais características do espectro da síndrome é a variabilidade intelectual, que abrange de desempenho médio a deficiência intelectual, bem como discrepâncias entre Quociente de Inteligência Verbal e de Quociente de Inteligência de Execução, com maior prejuízo nas tarefas não verbais. O presente estudo teve por objetivo investigar aspectos do desempenho intelectual de uma amostra brasileira de 21 crianças e adolescentes diagnosticados com SD22q11.2, com base nos indicadores da Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children - 4th edition. As amostras foram analisadas considerando diferenças entre os índices. Os resultados revelaram predomínio de Quociente de Inteligência Total na faixa limítrofe, entre 42 e 104, assim como discrepância significativa entre os índices de compreensão verbal e organização perceptual em 42% da amostra. No que concerne ao desempenho nos subtestes de forma isolada, um melhor resultado foi verificado em semelhanças, ao passo que cubos, raciocínio matricial, dígitos e sequência de números e letras foram os mais desafiadores. Esses achados indicam que uma avaliação abrangente de aspectos do desempenho intelectual contemplando as diversas medidas da Escala Wechsler de Inteligência pode contribuir para uma compreensão mais ampla do fenótipo neurocognitivo associado à SD22q11.2.

Recommendations for Assessment and Management of Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Mucopolysaccharidoses in Latin America

Abstract Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) constitute a heterogeneous group of rare genetic disorders caused by enzymatic deficiencies that lead to the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Clinical observations suggest a health-related impairment in quality of life in patients with MPS. Professionals with extensive experience in the care of patients with inborn errors of metabolism, such as MPS, held a meeting in April 2017 to discuss and propose recommendations for the evaluation and management of quality of life in MPS patients in Latin America. In the light of this scenario, the present work summarizes the content of the discussions and presents the recommendations produced at the meeting. The panel had suggested the use of the following tools for the assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQoL): Children's Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ) for children and patients unable to express their feelings, Health Assessments Questionnaire (HAQ) and EuroQol 5 Domains (EQ-5D) scales for adult patients. Based on the scores verified in these scales, the panel proposes interventions that aim reducing the impairment of the quality of life in patients with MPS disorders.

Audiological characteristics in mucopolysaccharidosis: a systematic literature review / Características audiológicas na mucopolissacaridose: revisão sistemática da literatura

ABSTRACT Purpose: to describe the audiological characteristics of patients with mucopolysaccharidosis. Methods: after formulating the research question, three databases were considered for the search (Science Direct, Virtual Health Library and Web of Science); the following descriptors were used: mucopolysaccharidoses, hearing loss, and audiology. Articles were included that were original and complete, presenting audiological evaluation data in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis. Each study was classified according to the degree of recommendation and the level of scientific evidence, based on the criteria established by the Oxford Center for Evidence-based Medicine, and the results obtained from the evaluations were analyzed. Results: of the 499 articles found, eight met the inclusion criteria. Pure tone audiometry and tympanometry were performed in all studies. The incidence of hearing loss in patients with MPS ranged from 54% to 100% of the cases, with conductive hearing loss corresponding to 30% and 58.33%, mixed hearing loss corresponding to 28.5% and 66.66% and sensorineural hearing loss corresponding to less than 14%. None of the studies described the responses of otoacoustic emissions and auditory evoked potentials. Conclusion: the prevalence of hearing loss among individuals with MPS is higher than 54% of the cases, of which conductive and mixed are predominant.

RESUMO Objetivo: descrever as características audiológicas de pacientes com Mucopolissacaridose. Métodos: após formular a pergunta de pesquisa, foram consideradas três bases de dados (Science Direct, Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde e Web of Science), sendo utilizados os seguintes descritores: mucopolissacaridoses, perda auditiva, audiologia. Foram incluídos artigos originais e completos, que apresentavam dados de avaliação audiológica em pacientes com mucopolissacaridose. Cada estudo foi classificado de acordo com o grau de recomendação e o nível de evidência científica, baseado nos critérios estabelecidos pela Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine, e foram analisados os resultados obtidos nas avaliações. Resultados: dentre os 499 artigos encontrados, oito contemplaram os critérios de inclusão. A audiometria tonal e a timpanometria foram realizadas em todos os estudos. A incidência de perda auditiva em pacientes com MPS variou entre 54% a 100% dos casos, sendo que as perdas auditivas condutivas corresponderam à 30% e 58,33%, as perdas auditivas mistas corresponderam à 28,5% e 66,66% e as perdas auditivas neurossensoriais corresponderam à menos de 14%. Nenhum dos estudos descreveu as respostas das emissões otoacústicas e dos potenciais evocados auditivos. Conclusão: a prevalência de perda auditiva entre indivíduos com MPS é superior à 54% dos casos, sendo esta predominantemente condutiva e mista.

Diagnosis and management of systemic hypertension due to renovascular and aortic stenosis in patients with Williams-Beuren syndrome

SUMMARY AIM To describe the incidence, diagnosis, and management of systemic arterial hypertension related to renal artery stenosis in patients with Williams-Beuren syndrome. METHODS Sixty-five patients with Williams-Beuren syndrome were evaluated for hypertension. Enrolled patients underwent Doppler sonography of the renal arteries and Doppler echocardiography. Those with Doppler sonography-detected lesions or with normal Doppler sonography but severe hypertension underwent computed tomography or gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography of the aorta and renal vessels. Patients needing vascular therapeutic intervention underwent conventional angiography. RESULTS Systemic arterial hypertension was diagnosed in 21/65 patients with Williams-Beuren syndrome (32%; 13 male) with a mean age of 13.9 years (5mo-20yrs). In 8/21 patients renovascular hypertension was detected. Angioplasty was unsuccessful in five patients with renal artery stenosis, requiring additional treatment. Doppler echocardiography showed cardiac abnormalities in 16/21 (76%) hypertensive patients. CONCLUSION Cardiac abnormalities and hypertension in patients with Williams-Beuren syndrome are common. Thus, thorough evaluation and follow-up are necessary to reduce cardiovascular risks and mortality of these patients

RESUMO OBJETIVO Descrever a incidência, o diagnóstico e o tratamento da hipertensão arterial sistêmica relacionada com estenose da artéria renal em pacientes com síndrome de Williams-Beuren. MÉTODOS Sessenta e cinco pacientes com síndrome de Williams-Beuren foram avaliados quanto à presença de hipertensão. Os pacientes foram submetidos à ultrassonografia com Doppler das artérias renais e ecocardiograma Doppler. Aqueles com suspeita de hipertensão renovascular foram submetidos à tomografia computadorizada ou angiografia por ressonância magnética da aorta e vasos renais ou angiografia convencional. RESULTADOS A hipertensão arterial sistêmica foi diagnosticada em 21/65 pacientes com síndrome de Williams-Beuren (32%, 13 do sexo masculino), com idade média de 13,9 anos (5 meses-20 anos). Em 8/21 pacientes foi detectada a hipertensão renovascular. Angioplastia não teve sucesso em cinco pacientes com estenose da artéria renal, necessitando de tratamento adicional. O ecocardiograma Doppler mostrou anormalidades cardíacas em 16/21 (76%) pacientes hipertensos. CONCLUSÃO As anormalidades cardíacas e hipertensão arterial em pacientes com síndrome de Williams-Beuren são muito frequentes, sendo necessários uma avaliação minuciosa e seguimento para diminuir o risco cardiovascular e a morbimortalidade desses pacientes

Natural history of 39 patients with Achondroplasia

OBJECTIVES: To characterize the natural history of 39 achondroplastic patients diagnosed by clinical, radiological and molecular assessments. METHODS: Observational and retrospective study of 39 patients who were attended at a public tertiary level hospital between 1995 and 2016. RESULTS: Diagnosis was made prenatally in 11 patients, at birth in 9 patients and within the first year of life in 13 patients. The most prevalent clinical findings were short stature, high forehead, trident hands, genu varum and macrocephaly. The most prevalent radiographic findings were rhizomelic shortening of the long bones and narrowing of the interpediculate distance of the caudal spine. There was motor developmental delay in 18 patients and speech delay in 16 patients. The most common clinical intercurrences were middle ear dysfunction, sleep apnea, limb pain and obesity from 2 to 9 years of age. One patient was large for the gestational age but did not develop obesity. One patient developed hydrocephalus at 10 years old. The current age of the patients varies from 15 months to 36 years. The molecular study performed by Sanger sequencing of the common heterozygous mutation 1138G>A in FGFR3 was positive in all patients. Four cases were inherited, and 35 were sporadic (paternal age from 19 to 66 years). CONCLUSIONS: The diagnoses were made early based on clinical and radiographic findings. All cases were confirmed molecularly. Despite presenting a benign course, it is necessary to establish a systematic protocol for the surveillance of these patients due to the common clinical intercurrences.

Cytogenomic assessment of the diagnosis of 93 patients with developmental delay and multiple congenital abnormalities: The Brazilian experience

OBJECTIVE: The human genome contains several types of variations, such as copy number variations, that can generate specific clinical abnormalities. Different techniques are used to detect these changes, and obtaining an unequivocal diagnosis is important to understand the physiopathology of the diseases. The objective of this study was to assess the diagnostic capacity of multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification and array techniques for etiologic diagnosis of syndromic patients. METHODS: We analyzed 93 patients with developmental delay and multiple congenital abnormalities using multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplifications and arrays. RESULTS: Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification using different kits revealed several changes in approximately 33.3% of patients. The use of arrays with different platforms showed an approximately 53.75% detection rate for at least one pathogenic change and a 46.25% detection rate for patients with benign changes. A concomitant assessment of the two techniques showed an approximately 97.8% rate of concordance, although the results were not the same in all cases. In contrast with the array results, the MLPA technique detected ∼70.6% of pathogenic changes. CONCLUSION: The obtained results corroborated data reported in the literature, but the overall detection rate was higher than the rates previously reported, due in part to the criteria used to select patients. Although arrays are the most efficient tool for diagnosis, they are not always suitable as a first-line diagnostic approach because of their high cost for large-scale use in developing countries. Thus, clinical and laboratory interactions with skilled technicians are required to target patients for the most effective and beneficial molecular diagnosis.

Clinical description of 41 Brazilian patients with oculo-auriculo-vertebral dysplasia / Displasia óculo-aurículo-vertebral: aspectos clínicos de 41 pacientes brasileiros

SUMMARY Objective: To describe the most prominent clinical features of a cohort of patients with oculo-auriculo-vertebral (OAV) dysplasia in Brazil. Method: A review of medical records of patients with diagnosis of OAV from 1990 to 2010 was performed in a medical genetics center. Results: 41 patients were included in the study. Their average age at diagnosis was 2y 10mo (34,4±48,8 months) and the female proportion was 53.7%. Mean maternal age at patient’s birth was 28.5y (min: 17, max: 46y) for mothers and 31.4y (min: 21, max: 51y) for fathers. Most patients (97.5%) had auricular involvement, with facial manifestation in 90.2%, spinal in 65.9%, ocular in 53.7%, 36.6% with cardiovascular involvement, 29.3% urogenital, and 17% of the cases with central nervous system (CNS) involvement. The classic OAV triad was present in only 34%. All patients except one had concomitant problems in other organs or systems. Conclusion: Since the diagnosis of OAV dysplasia relies only on a comprehensive medical evaluation, it is imperative that clinicians be aware of the most common presentation of the syndrome. Once suspected, every patient should undergo a complete medical evaluation of multiple systems including complementary exams. Treatment of these patients is based on surgical correction of malformations and rehabilitation.

RESUMO Objetivo: descrever os principais achados clínicos de uma coorte de pacientes com a displasia óculo-aurículo-vertebral (OAV). Método: revisão de prontuários médicos dos pacientes com diagnóstico de OAV no período de 1990 a 2010, acompanhados em um centro de genética médica. Resultados: foram incluídos no estudo 41 pacientes. A média de idade ao diagnóstico foi de 2 anos e 10 meses (34,4±48,8 meses) e a proporção de pacientes do sexo feminino foi de 53,7%. A média de idade dos pais ao nascimento do paciente foi de 28,5±6,9 anos para as mães e 31,4±7,4 anos para os pais. A maioria dos indivíduos (97,5%) possuía acometimento auricular, 90,2% tinham manifestações faciais, 65,9%, vertebrais, 53,7%, oculares, 36,6%, cardiovasculares, 29,3%, urogenitais e 17%, no sistema nervoso central. Além disso, 34% dos pacientes apresentavam a tríade clássica óculo-aurículo-vertebral, e todos os pacientes exceto um apresentavam concomitantemente problemas em outros órgãos ou sistemas. Conclusão: já que o diagnóstico desta entidade é eminentemente clínico, é imprescindível que os médicos das mais diversas especialidades conheçam os achados mais frequentes na OAV. Diante de um paciente com suspeita diagnóstica, deve ser realizada avaliação detalhada de outros órgãos, tanto clínica como por meio de exames complementares. O tratamento é baseado na correção cirúrgica das malformações e na reabilitação.

Indicadores socioemocionais do espectro do autismo em pessoas com síndrome de Williams / Social and emotional indicators of the autism spectrum in individuals with Williams syndrome / Indicadores socio­emocionales del espectro del autismo en individuos con síndrome de Williams

A síndrome de Williams (SW) é uma desordem genética causada pela deleção de múltiplos genes no cromossomo 7. Evidências clínicas alertam para indicadores de prejuízos socioemocionais compatíveis com Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA). O objetivo do estudo foi identificar indicadores socioemocionais e comportamentais compatíveis com autismo em pessoas com SW. A amostra foi composta por 30 indivíduos com diagnóstico de SW e 22 com TEA. Os instrumentos de coleta de dados foram Inventário de Comportamentos Autísticos (Autism Behavior Checklist – ABC); e Questionário de Avaliação de Autismo (Autism Screening Questionnaire – ASQ), respondidos pelos respectivos cuidadores. Foi conduzida uma análise discriminante (modelo Step Wise) para diferenciação dos grupos a partir dos itens dos inventários ABC e ASQ. O grupo de pessoas com SW apresentou um número expressivo de sinais de alterações socioemocionais, comunicativas e de comportamento compatíveis com Autismo que predominaram na fase dos quatro a cinco anos de idade.

Williams Syndrome (WS) is a genetic disorder caused by the deletion of multiple genes on chromosome 7. Clinical evidence points to socio‑emotional alterations compatible with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The goal of this study was to identify socio‑emotional and behavioral signs compatible with ASD in individuals with WS. The sample consisted of 30 individuals with WS and 22 with ASD. The data collection instruments were Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC); and Autism Screening Questionnaire (ASQ) that were answered by the caregivers. We conducted a discriminant analysis (Step Wise) to differentiate the groups from items of the ABC and ASQ inventories. The WS group showed a large number of signs of socio‑emotional, communicative and behavioral alterations compatible with Autism that prevailed at the age of four to five years.

El Síndrome de Williams (SW) es una enfermedad genética causada por la delección de múltiplos genes en el cromosoma 7. Evidencias clínicas alertan para indicadores de afectaciones socio‑emocionales compatibles con Trastorno del Espectro del Autismo (TEA). El objetivo del estudio fue identificar indicadores socio‑emocionales y conductuales compatibles con Autismo en personas con SW. La muestra fue compuesta por 30 individuos con diagnóstico de SW y 22 con TEA. Los instrumentos de colecta de datos fueron Inventario de Conductas Autisticos (Autism Behavior Checklist – ABC); y Cuestionario de Conducta y Comunicación Social (Autism Screening Questionnaire – ASQ), respondidos por los respectivos cuidadores. Fue conducido un análisis discriminante (modelo Step Wise) para diferenciación de los grupos a partir de los itens de los inventarios ABC y ASQ. El grupo de personas con SW presentó un número expresivo de señales de alteraciones socio‑emocionales, comunicativas y de conducta compatibles con Autismo que predominaron en la fase de los cuatro a cinco años de edad.

Menkes disease: importance of diagnosis with molecular analysis in the neonatal period / Doença de Menkes: importância do diagnóstico com análise molecular no período neonatal

Summary Menkes disease is a congenital disorder caused by changes in copper metabolism derived from mutations in the ATP7A gene. It is characterized by physical and neurological alterations. In the neonatal period, these alterations can be nonspecific, which makes early diagnosis a challenge. Diagnosis can be suspected when there are low levels of ceruloplasmin and serum copper. Molecular analysis confirms the diagnosis. Treatment is parenteral administration of copper histidine. We report a familial case with molecular confirmation. The proband had clinical and biochemical suspicious. Treatment with copper histidine was indicated, but initiated at the age of 2 months and 27 days only. He did not present improvements and died at 6 months. The mother became pregnant again, a male fetus was identified and copper histidine was manufactured during pregnancy. He was born healthy, biochemical markers were reduced and treatment was indicated. Molecular analysis was performed confirming mutation in both the mother and the proband, while the other son did not have mutation, so treatment was discontinued. We support the clinical relevance of molecular confirmation for the correct diagnosis and genetic counseling, once clinical findings in the neonatal period are nonspecific and early treatment with parenteral copper histidine must be indicated.

Resumo A doença de Menkes é causada por uma alteração genética no metabolismo do cobre, por mutações no gene ATP7A. Caracteriza-se por alterações neurológicas e no exame físico. No período neonatal, essas alterações podem ser inespecíficas, o que torna o diagnóstico precoce um desafio. O diagnóstico pode ser suspeitado quando há baixos níveis séricos de cobre e ceruloplasmina. A análise molecular confirma o diagnóstico, e o tratamento deve ser feito com histidina de cobre. Nós relatamos um caso familial de doença de Menkes. O probando apresentava quadro clínico e alterações bioquímicas compatíveis com a doença de Menkes, em consulta com 1 mês de vida. O tratamento foi indicado, mas apenas iniciado com 2 meses e 27 dias. Ele não apresentou melhora clínica e veio a óbito com 6 meses. A mãe teve uma nova gestação, foi identificado um feto do sexo masculino e foi solicitada a manipulação da histidina de cobre ainda durante a gestação. O bebê nasceu saudável, os marcadores bioquímicos estavam diminuídos e o tratamento com histidina de cobre foi indicado. Realizamos a análise molecular, que confirmou mutação no gene ATP7A na mãe e no probando; porém, o outro filho não apresentava mutação e o tratamento foi interrompido. Nós defendemos a importância clínica da confirmação molecular para o correto diagnóstico e o aconselhamento genético da doença de Menkes, uma vez que os achados clínicos e as alterações bioquímicas no período neonatal são inespecíficos, e o tratamento com histidina de cobre parenteral deve ser rapidamente instituído.

Mowat-Wilson syndrome: neurological and molecular study in seven patients / Síndrome de Mowat-Wilson: estudo neurológico e molecular em sete pacientes

Objective To present a seven-cases serie of Mowat-Wilson syndrome (MWS). Method All patients with positive mutation for the ZEB2 were evaluated by a geneticist and a neurologist, with clinical and laboratorial characterization. Results A peculiar facies and mental retardation were present in all patients. The Denver II scale showed intense delay in all aspects, especially fine motor and adaptive. Acquired microcephaly was observed in five patients. Only one patient did not present epilepsy. Epilepsy was focal and predominating in sleep, with status epilepticus in three patients. The initial seizure was associated with fever in most patients (4/6). The EEG showed epileptic focal activity (5/7). The imaging studies revealed total agenesis (4/7) and partial agenesis of the corpus callosum (1/7). Conclusion Physicians who care for patients with mental retardation and epilepsy should be aware of SMW. .

Objetivo Apresentar uma série de sete casos da síndrome de Mowat-Wilson (SMW). Método Todos os pacientes com estudo positivo para a mutação ZEB2 foram avaliados por um geneticista e um neurologista, com a caracterização clínica e laboratorial. Resultados Todos apresentavam fácies peculiar e retardo mental. A escala de Denver II evidenciou intenso atraso em todos os aspectos, sobretudo motor fino e adaptativo. Microcefalia adquirida foi observada em cinco pacientes. Apenas um paciente não apresentava epilepsia, sendo esta focal e predominando no sono, sendo relatado estado de mal em três pacientes. A crise inicial estava associada à febre na maioria dos pacientes (4/6). O EEG evidenciou atividade epiléptica focal na maioria (5/7). Ao estudo de imagem foi observada agenesia total (4/7) e parcial do corpo caloso (1/7). Conclusão Médicos que lidam com pacientes com retardo mental e epilepsia devem saber distinguir as características peculiares da SMW. .

Investigation of Copy Number Variation in Children with Conotruncal Heart Defects / Investigação da Variação no Número de Cópias Gênicas em Crianças com Defeito Cardíaco Conotruncal

Background: Congenital heart defects (CHD) are the most prevalent group of structural abnormalities at birth and one of the main causes of infant morbidity and mortality. Studies have shown a contribution of the copy number variation in the genesis of cardiac malformations. Objectives: Investigate gene copy number variation (CNV) in children with conotruncal heart defect. Methods: Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) was performed in 39 patients with conotruncal heart defect. Clinical and laboratory assessments were conducted in all patients. The parents of the probands who presented abnormal findings were also investigated. Results: Gene copy number variation was detected in 7/39 patients: 22q11.2 deletion, 22q11.2 duplication, 15q11.2 duplication, 20p12.2 duplication, 19p deletion, 15q and 8p23.2 duplication with 10p12.31 duplication. The clinical characteristics were consistent with those reported in the literature associated with the encountered microdeletion/microduplication. None of these changes was inherited from the parents. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that the technique of MLPA is useful in the investigation of microdeletions and microduplications in conotruncal congenital heart defects. Early diagnosis of the copy number variation in patients with congenital heart defect assists in the prevention of morbidity and decreased mortality in these patients. .

Fundamento: Os defeitos cardíacos congênitos são o grupo de anormalidades estruturais mais prevalentes ao nascimento e uma das principais causas de morbidade e mortalidade infantil. Estudos têm mostrado a contribuição da variação no número de cópias na gênese das malformações cardíacas. Objetivos: Investigar a variação no número de cópias gênicas em crianças com defeito cardíaco conotruncal. Métodos: Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA) foi realizado em 39 pacientes com defeito cardíaco conotruncal. Avaliação clínica e laboratorial foi realizada em todos os pacientes. Os pais dos probandos que apresentaram alterações também foram investigados. Resultados: Variação no número de cópias foi detectada em 7/39 pacientes: deleção 22q11.2, duplicação 22q11.2, duplicação 15q11.2, duplicação 20p12.2, deleção 19p, duplicação 15q e 8p23.2 com duplicação 10p12.31. As características clínicas foram compatíveis com o relatado na literatura associadas com microdeleção/microduplicação encontrada. Nenhuma dessas alterações foi herdada dos pais. Conclusões: Nossos resultados demonstram que a técnica de MLPA é útil na investigação de microdeleções e microduplicações em defeitos cardíacos congênitos conotruncais. O diagnóstico precoce das variações no número de cópias em pacientes com defeito cardíaco congênito auxilia na prevenção de morbidade e diminuição da mortalidade nesses pacientes. .

Estresse em crianças e adolescentes com Síndrome de Williams-Beuren em idade escolar / Stress in children and adolescents with Williams-Beuren syndrome in school age / Estrés en niños y adolescentes con síndrome de Williams-Beuren en edad escolar

Síndrome de Williams-Beuren é uma doença de múltiplos órgãos causada por microdeleção de 25 genes no cromossomo 7 (q11.23), sugerindo uma vulnerabilidade ao estresse. Objetivamos determinar se crianças e adolescentes com síndrome de Williams-Beuren apresentam níveis elevados de estresse. Avaliamos 40 indivíduos em idade escolar, com diagnóstico de síndrome de Williams-Beuren e grupo controle. Os instrumentos utilizados: Escala de Estresse Infantil (ESI), Escala de Inteligência para Crianças (WISC), Escala de Inteligência para Adultos (WAIS) e um questionário semiestruturado. No grupo com o SWB, 50% tinham altos níveis de estresse em comparação com 28,6% no grupo controle, diferença altamente significativa estatisticamente (p <0,001). De escola de inclusão, 40,7% apresentaram maior estresse; de escola especial, 69,2% (p> 0,140). Indivíduos com síndrome de Williams mostram índice elevado de estresse. Este estudo destaca a necessidade de orientação sobre a síndrome a pais e gestão escolar, com foco na redução de possíveis fatores ambientais estressantes.

Williams-Beuren syndrome is a multiorgan disease caused by microdeletion of 25 genes on chromosome 7 (q11.23), suggesting a vulnerability to stress. In this study we aim to determine whether children and adolescents with Williams-Beuren syndrome have high levels of stress. We studied 40 subjects of school age, with confirmed diagnosis of Williams-Beuren syndrome and control group. The instruments used: Child Stress Scale (ESI), Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC), Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), and a questionnaire semi-estructured. In the group with SWB, 50% had high levels of stress compared with 28.6% in the control group, statistically highly significant difference (p <0.001). In Inclusion school, 40.7% revealed higher stress; special school 69.2% (p> 0,140) difference was not statistically significant. Individuals with Williams syndrome show high level of stress. This study highlights the need for guidance about the syndrome to parents and school management, with focus on reducing of possible environmental stressors factors.

El Síndrome de Williams-Beuren es una enfermedad de múltiplos órganos causada por microdeleción de 25 genes en el cromosoma 7 (q11.23) sugiriendo una vulnerabilidad al estrés. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar si niños y adolescentes con síndrome de Williams-Beuren presentan niveles elevados de estrés. Evaluamos 40 individuos en edad escolar con diagnóstico de síndrome de Williams-Beuren y grupo control. Los instrumentos utilizados: Escala de Estrés Infantil (ESI), Escala de Inteligencia para niños (WISC), Escala de Inteligencia para Adultos (WAIS) y un cuestionario semi-estructurado. En el grupo con el SWB 50% tenían altos niveles de estrés en comparación con 28,6% en el grupo control, diferencia altamente significativa estadísticamente (p <0,001). De la escuela de inclusión 40,7% presentaron mayor estrés; de la escuela especial 69,2% (p> 0,140). Individuos con Síndrome de Williams muestran índice elevado de estrés. Este estudio destaca la necesidad de orientación sobre el síndrome a padres y gestión escolar con enfoque en la reducción de posibles factores ambientales estresantes.

Tegumentary manifestations of Noonan and Noonan-related syndromes

OBJECTIVES: Noonan and Noonan-related syndromes are common autosomal dominant disorders with neuro-cardio-facial-cutaneous and developmental involvement. The objective of this article is to describe the most relevant tegumentary findings in a cohort of 41 patients with Noonan or Noonan-related syndromes and to detail certain aspects of the molecular mechanisms underlying ectodermal involvement. METHODS: A standard questionnaire was administered. A focused physical examination and a systematic review of clinical records was performed on all patients to verify the presence of tegumentary alterations. The molecular analysis of this cohort included sequencing of the following genes in all patients: PTPN1, SOS1, RAF1, KRAS, SHOC2 and BRAF. RESULTS: The most frequent tegumentary alterations were xeroderma (46%), photosensitivity (29%), excessive hair loss (24%), recurrent oral ulcers (22%), curly hair (20%), nevi (17%), markedly increased palmar and plantar creases (12%), follicular hyperkeratosis (12%), palmoplantar hyperkeratosis (10%), café-au-lait spots (10%) and sparse eyebrows (7%). Patients with mutations in PTPN11 had lower frequencies of palmar and plantar creases and palmar/plantar hyperkeratosis compared with the other patients. CONCLUSIONS: We observed that patients with mutations in genes directly involved in cell proliferation kinase cascades (SOS1, BRAF, KRAS and RAF1) had a higher frequency of hyperkeratotic lesions compared with patients with mutations in genes that have a more complex interaction with and modulation of cell proliferation kinase cascades (PTPN11). .

A clinical follow-up of 35 Brazilian patients with Prader-Willi Syndrome

OBJECTIVE: Prader-Willi Syndrome is a common etiology of syndromic obesity that is typically caused by either a paternal microdeletion of a region in chromosome 15 (microdeletions) or a maternal uniparental disomy of this chromosome. The purpose of this study was to describe the most significant clinical features of 35 Brazilian patients with molecularly confirmed Prader-Willi syndrome and to determine the effects of growth hormone treatment on clinical outcomes. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed based on the medical records of a cohort of 35 patients diagnosed with Prader-Willi syndrome. The main clinical characteristics were compared between the group of patients presenting with microdeletions and the group presenting with maternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 15. Curves for height/length, weight and body mass index were constructed and compared between Prader-Willi syndrome patients treated with and without growth hormone to determine how growth hormone treatment affected body composition. The curves for these patient groups were also compared with curves for the normal population. RESULTS: No significant differences were identified between patients with microdeletions and patients with maternal uniparental disomy for any of the clinical parameters measured. Growth hormone treatment considerably improved the control of weight gain and body mass index for female patients but had no effect on either parameter in male patients. Growth hormone treatment did not affect height/length in either gender. CONCLUSION: The prevalence rates of several clinical features in this study are in agreement with the rates reported in the literature. Additionally, we found modest benefits of growth hormone treatment but failed to demonstrate differences between patients with microdeletions and those with maternal uniparental disomy. The control of weight gain in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome is complex and does not depend exclusively on growth hormone treatment.