Clinical and genetic analyses of Joubert syndrome in children / 中国当代儿科杂志

OBJECTIVES@#To study the clinical and genetic features of Joubert syndrome (JS) in children.@*METHODS@#A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data, genetic data, and follow-up data of 20 children who were diagnosed with JS in the Department of Children's Rehabilitation, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, from January 2017 to July 2022.@*RESULTS@#Among the 20 children with JS, there were 11 boys and 9 girls. The common clinical manifestations were developmental delay (20 children, 100%), abnormal eye movement (19 children, 95%), and hypotonia (16 children, 80%), followed by abnormal respiratory rhythm in 5 children (25%) and unusual facies (including prominent forehead, low-set ears, and triangular mouth) in 3 children (15%), and no limb deformity was observed. All 20 children (100%) had the typical "molar tooth sign" and "midline cleft syndrome" on head images, and 6 children (30%) had abnormal eye examination results. Genetic testing was performed on 7 children and revealed 6 pathogenic genes, i.e., the CPLANE1, RPGRIP1L, MKS1, CC2D2A, CEP120, and AHI1 genes.@*CONCLUSIONS@#For children with developmental delay, especially those with abnormal eye movement and hypotonia, it is recommended to perform a head imaging examination to determine the presence or absence of "molar tooth sign" and "midline cleft syndrome", so as to screen for JS to avoid missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis. There are many pathogenic genes for JS, and whole-exome sequencing can assist in the diagnosis of JS.

Joubert syndrome: a case report of neonatal presentation and early diagnosis / Síndrome de Joubert: reporte de caso de presentación neonatal y diagnóstico temprano

Abstract Background: Joubert syndrome is a rare genetic condition with a prevalence of 1:80,000-1:100,000. In most cases, it shows an autosomal autosomal recessive hereditary pattern, although X-linked and autosomal dominant cases have been described. The distinctive characteristic of this syndrome is the malformation at cerebral and cerebellar levels, known as the "molar tooth sign," hypotonia, and delayed neurodevelopment. Case report: We describe the case of a newborn with transient tachypnea. However, during hospital stay, he showed other clinical signs not corresponding to the admission diagnosis, such as bradycardia, apneas, hypotonia, and alteration in swallowing mechanics. To rule out etiologies of central origin, we conducted a magnetic resonance of the brain and identified the "molar tooth sign," where the pathognomonic sign of Joubert syndrome. Conclusions: Rare genetic diseases may manifest as early as the neonatal period with non-specific signs. The early diagnosis of Joubert syndrome is reflected in better pediatric follow-up, which impacts its prognosis and the possibility of improving the patient's quality of life with a multidisciplinary management and genetic counseling.

Resumen Introducción: El síndrome de Joubert es una rara condición genética con una prevalencia de 1:80,000 a 1:100,000. En la mayoría de los casos se presenta con un patrón de herencia autosómica recesiva, aunque se han reporatdo casos ligados al cromosoma X y autosómicos dominantes. La característica distintiva de este síndrome es la malformación a nivel cerebral y del cerebelo conocido como el "signo del molar", hipotonía y retraso en el neurodesarrollo. Caso clínico: Se describe el caso de un recién nacido con taquipnea transitoria del recién nacido; sin embargo, durante su estancia manifestó otros signos que no correspondían con el diagnóstico de ingreso, como bradicardia, apneas, hipotonía y alteración en la mecánica de la deglución. Para descartar etiologías de origen central, se realizó una resonancia magnética cerebral en la que se detectó el "signo del molar", patognomónico del síndrome de Joubert. Conclusiones: Las enfermedades genéticas raras pueden manifestarse desde el periodo neonatal con signos muy inespecíficos. El diagnóstico precoz del Síndrome de Joubert permite un mejor seguimiento pediátrico que impacta en su pronóstico y en la posibilidad de mejorar la calidad de vida del paciente con un manejo multidisciplinario, así como brindar asesoramiento genético.

A case report of Joubert syndrome caused by KIAA0586 gene mutation / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

The main clinical phenotypes, imaging features and genetic test results of a child with Joubert syndrome treated in Shenzhen Children′s Hospital in July 2020 were analyzed retrospectively, and the literature on Joubert syndrome was summarized.The main manifestations of the protester during infancy were respiratory abnormalities and developmental retardation.The brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a " molar sign" , which was consistent with the diagnosis of Joubert syndrome.Genetic testing suggested that the protestor carried complex heterozygous variations of KIAA0586 gene.Two variants were not reported previously, one of which was synonymous mutation.The child is the first case of Joubert syndrome caused by KIAA0586 gene in China.Joubert syndrome is a rare congenital brain development malformation characterized by high clinical heterogeneity and MRI molar signs.It may involve multiple systems.Early identification and intervention can improve outcomes.

Neonatal presentation of Joubert syndrome

Joubert syndrome is a rare genetic disorder with autosomal recessive or rarely X-linked recessive inheritance. Authors are reporting a case of a newborn girl with Joubert syndrome who presented with respiratory distress, hypotonia, hyporeflexia, abnormal eye movements, and facial dysmorphism. Brain MRI revealed vermian hypoplasia, 'molar tooth sign' with 'bat wing appearance' of the fourth ventricle, deepened interpeduncular fossa, and elongated superior cerebellar peduncles. The clinical diagnosis of this syndrome is difficult due to its variable presentation and non-specific presentation. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has an important role in the diagnosis of Joubert syndrome. This not only helps in early diagnosis but also helps in appropriate counseling and proper rehabilitation of the baby.

The Joubert Syndrome Gene arl13b is Critical for Early Cerebellar Development in Zebrafish / 神经科学通报·英文版

Joubert syndrome is characterized by unique malformation of the cerebellar vermis. More than thirty Joubert syndrome genes have been identified, including ARL13B. However, its role in cerebellar development remains unexplored. We found that knockdown or knockout of arl13b impaired balance and locomotion in zebrafish larvae. Granule cells were selectively reduced in the corpus cerebelli, a structure homologous to the mammalian vermis. Purkinje cell progenitors were also selectively disturbed dorsomedially. The expression of atoh1 and ptf1, proneural genes of granule and Purkinje cells, respectively, were selectively down-regulated along the dorsal midline of the cerebellum. Moreover, wnt1, which is transiently expressed early in cerebellar development, was selectively reduced. Intriguingly, activating Wnt signaling partially rescued the granule cell defects in arl13b mutants. These findings suggested that Arl13b is necessary for the early development of cerebellar granule and Purkinje cells. The arl13b-deficient zebrafish can serve as a model organism for studying Joubert syndrome.

The Joubert Syndrome Gene arl13b is Critical for Early Cerebellar Development in Zebrafish / 神经科学通报·英文版

Joubert syndrome is characterized by unique malformation of the cerebellar vermis. More than thirty Joubert syndrome genes have been identified, including ARL13B. However, its role in cerebellar development remains unexplored. We found that knockdown or knockout of arl13b impaired balance and locomotion in zebrafish larvae. Granule cells were selectively reduced in the corpus cerebelli, a structure homologous to the mammalian vermis. Purkinje cell progenitors were also selectively disturbed dorsomedially. The expression of atoh1 and ptf1, proneural genes of granule and Purkinje cells, respectively, were selectively down-regulated along the dorsal midline of the cerebellum. Moreover, wnt1, which is transiently expressed early in cerebellar development, was selectively reduced. Intriguingly, activating Wnt signaling partially rescued the granule cell defects in arl13b mutants. These findings suggested that Arl13b is necessary for the early development of cerebellar granule and Purkinje cells. The arl13b-deficient zebrafish can serve as a model organism for studying Joubert syndrome.

Anestesia total intravenosa libre de opioides en un paciente con síndrome de Joubert: caso clínico / Opioid free total intravenous anesthesia in Joubert syndrome: Case report

Joubert syndrome (JS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by abnormal eye movements, respiratory pattern abnormalities, anatomical airway alterations, mental retardation and hypoplasia/aplasia of the cerebellar vermis confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. This case report describes the successful management of a patient with JS operated of cholesteatoma under 100% opioid-free total intravenous general anaesthesia. We also provide a brief review of JS, its anaesthetic implications and opioid-free anaesthesia (OFA) technique.

El síndrome de Joubert (SJ) es una enfermedad autosómica recesiva poco frecuente caracterizada por trastornos oculares, respiratorios, alteraciones anatómicas de la vía aérea, retraso mental e hipoplasia/aplasia del vermis cerebeloso constatada mediante resonancia magnética. Presentamos un caso exitoso de paciente con SJ operado de colesteatoma bajo anestesia general endovenosa total 100% libre de opioides. Asimismo, realizamos una breve revisión del SJ, sus implicaciones anestésicas y de la técnica de anestesia libre de opioides.

Newborn with multiple congenital anomalies in newborn, intensive care unit suggestive of joubert syndrome and related disorder with an atypical presentation

Joubert syndrome (JS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder with key finding of cerebellar vermis hypoplasia with a complex brainstem malformation that comprises the molar tooth sign on axial magnetic resonance images. This syndrome is difficult to diagnose clinically because of its variable phenotype. Molar tooth sign is not specific for JS. Another entity is termed as Joubert syndrome and related disorders (JSRD). Although the molar tooth sign and other important clinical features of the JS may be seen in these syndromes, they usually have supplementary prominent features. Author present a case of Joubert syndrome and related disorder in a term newborn delivered in the hospital of Government Medical College, Haldwani with multiple congenital anomalies. Macrocephaly, facial dysmorphism, polydactyly left hand and bilateral ballotable lumbar lump (multicystic dysplastic kidney). MRI showed molar tooth configuration of superior cerebellar peduncles, dilatation of lateral and third ventricles with aqueductal stenosis with arachnoid cyst (unusual association).

Sindrome de Joubert asociado a malformación de Dandy-Walker en un paciente pediátrico: Reporte de un caso / Joubert syndrome associated with Dandy-Walker malformation in a pediatric patient: a case report

Se presenta el caso de una niña de 10 meses de edad que desde el nacimiento experimentó apnea e hiperpnea, hipotonía y nistagmus. Durante sus primeros meses de vida presentó además insuficiencia renal, retraso psicomotor e infecciones severas. Se diagnosticó de síndrome de Joubert asociado a malformación de Dandy-Walker y en la prueba de resonancia magnética se observó el típico signo de "Diente Molar" característicamente asociado al quiste. La asociación infrecuente de este tipo de malformaciones cerebrales agrava ciertamente el pronóstico del cuadro original.

The case of a 10-month-old girl with apnea and hyperpnea, hypotonia and nystagmus from the time of birth, is presented. During her first months of life she presented additional manifestations of renal failure, psychomotor retardation and severe infections. The diagnosis of Joubert syndrome associated with Dandy-Walker Malformation was formulated, and the typical "Molar Tooth" sign, characteristically associated with the cyst characteristics was detected with magnetic resonance imaging tests. The uncommon association of these brain malformations that worsen the prognosis, is discussed.

Clinical and genetic analysis of a family with Joubert syndrome type 10 caused by OFD1 gene mutation / 中华儿科杂志

Objective@#To investigate the genetic cause for a family with multiorgan dysplasia and "molar tooth sign" on MRI image.@*Method@#The patient, a 3 months and 21 days old boy, was clinically examined and the medical history of his family was collected. Next generation sequencing was performed to analyze his clinical and genetic causes.@*Result@#Clinical manifestation of the child displayed multiorgan dysplasia, such as six finger deformity, short limbs, coloboma of optic disc and choroid, situs inversus.Cranial MRI showed "molar tooth sign" . The gene sequencing confirmed that the child carried a de novo deletion of c. 2843_2844 delAA in OFD1 gene.@*Conclusion@#The child has typical clinical features of Joubert syndrome, such as MRI "molar syndrome" , developmental abnormalities of ocular tissue and limb, visceral inversion, and so on.The OFD1 gene had a novel deletion mutation through gene detection. Combined clinical features with gene detection, it was clear that the child was a rare case of Joubert syndrome type 10 which was the first case of Joubert syndrome caused by OFD1 gene mutation in China.

Whole Exome Sequencing in a Korean Child with Joubert Syndrome-related Disorders

Joubert syndrome and Joubert syndrome-related disorders (JSRDs) are rare autosomal recessive or X-linked disorders characterized by cerebellar vermis hypoplasia and a brain stem malformation, which presents as the “molar tooth sign” in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). JSRDs are a group of clinically heterogeneous conditions that exhibit neurological manifestations and multiple organ involvement. JSRDs are also genetically heterogeneous, and approximately 20 causative genes that account for 45% of JSRDs have been identified. A 7-yr-old boy visited Wonkwang University Sanbon Hospital with the following presentations: no ocular fixation, ataxia, growth retardation, and hypotonia. Physical examination revealed facial dysmorphism, spindle shaped fingers, and height (99 cm) and weight (13 kg) below the third percentile. Ophthalmic examination revealed retinal dystrophy. A diagnosis of JSRDs was made based on clinical and brain MRI findings. We found two heterozygous variants c.2945 G>T; p.Arg982Met (G>T) and c.2216dupA; p.Phe740Valfs*2 (dupA) in AHI1, and a heterozygous c.3973C>T; p.Arg1325Trp (C>T) variant in KIF7 by whole exome sequencing (WES). Genetic analysis on the proband's father revealed that he had both AHI1 variants, but did not have the KIF7 variant, which was inconsistent with autosomal recessive inheritance. Therefore, the G>T variant and C>T variant were presumed to be of “uncertain significance.” Furthermore, one novel dupA variant was interpreted as “pathogenic,” while the second allele was not detected. Caution should be exercised while interpreting the significance of variants detected by WES. In addition, the involvement of genes other than the 20 known ones will require further investigation to elucidate the pathogenesis of JSRDs.

Joubert Syndrome Presenting With Normal Pyramidal Decussation: A Case Report

Joubert syndrome (JS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by a congenital malformation of the hindbrain, and accompanied by axonal decussation abnormalities affecting the corticospinal tract and the superior cerebellar peduncles. To the best of our knowledge, there are no reports of normal pyramidal decussation in JS. Here, we describe the case of an 18-year-old boy presenting midline-crossing corticospinal projections, which were considered normal corticospinal tract trajectories. Diffusion tensor imaging and motor evoked potential study analysis demonstrated the exclusive presence of decussating corticospinal projections in the patient. Based on these results, we suggest that JS might be associated with several, diverse corticospinal motor tract organization patterns.

Linguagem, comportamento e neurodesenvolvimento na Síndrome de Joubert: relato de caso / Language, behavior and neurodevelopment in Joubert syndrome: a case report

RESUMO A síndrome de Joubert (SJ) é uma condição genética heterogênea, rara, do grupo das ciliopatias. Mais de 20 genes foram identificados relacionados com este fenótipo. As principais manifestações incluem hipotonia, ataxia, atraso psicomotor, apraxia oculomotora e anormalidades respiratórias neonatais. O objetivo deste artigo foi apresentar achados de linguagem e neurodesenvolvimento de um indivíduo com diagnóstico da SJ. Foi realizada a anamnese, avaliação genética clínica, observação do comportamento comunicativo, avaliação da linguagem, o Teste de Screening de Desenvolvimento Denver-II (TSDD-II) e a Early Language Milestone Scale (ELMS). Os principais achados da Ressonância Magnética do encéfalo mostraram grave hipoplasia do vérmis cerebelar, “sinal do dente molar”, tronco cerebral hipoplásico, atrofia dos hemisférios cerebelares. A avaliação da linguagem mostrou ausência de oralidade, prejuízo na recepção da linguagem, confirmando o diagnóstico de transtorno de linguagem, com grau de comprometimento grave. O TSDD-II e a ELMS comprovaram a observação e avaliação clínica e indicaram atraso grave nos domínios motor, autocuidados e de linguagem receptiva e expressiva. Diante da presença de hipotonia, ataxia, atraso psicomotor e anormalidades respiratórias neonatais é imprescindível a realização de exame por imagem e avaliação genética para o diagnóstico desta condição, tão complexa, com necessidades terapêuticas peculiares. Este conjunto de achados, associado à história familial e características fenotípicas peculiares reforçam o diagnóstico genético clínico da SJ. Esta síndrome genética é pouco reconhecida e merece ser apresentada para o reconhecimento da comunidade científica, visando o diagnóstico correto e planejamento terapêutico que minimize os efeitos deletérios desta condição.

ABSTRACT The Joubert syndrome (JS) is a rare, heterogeneous genetic condition among the ciliopathies. More than 20 genes have been identified associated with this phenotype. The main manifestations include hypotonia, ataxia, psychomotor retardation, ocular-motor apraxia and neonatal respiratory abnormalities. The objective of this paper was to present language and neurodevelopmental findings of an individual diagnosed with JS. The following procedures were performed: anamnesis, clinical genetic evaluation observation of communicative behavior, evaluation of language, the Denver Developmental Screening Test II (DDST-II) and the Early Language Milestone Scale (ELMS). The main findings of the MRI brain showed severe hypoplasia of the cerebellar vermis, “molar tooth sign”, hypoplastic brain stem and atrophy of the cerebellar hemispheres. The observation and evaluation of the language showed no oral, impaired reception of language, confirming the diagnosis of language disorder with severe degree of impairment. The DDST-II and the ELMS confirmed the observation and clinical assessment and indicated serious delay in motor domains, self-care and receptive and expressive language. Given the presence of hypotonia, ataxia, delayed psychomotor and neonatal respiratory abnormalities it is essential to carry out examination imaging and genetic evaluation for the diagnosis of this condition, so complex, with unique therapeutic needs. This set of findings, along with the familial history and unique phenotypic characteristics reinforce the clinical genetic diagnosis JS. This genetic syndrome is rarely recognized and deserves to be presented to the recognition of the scientific community, targeting the correct diagnosis and treatment planning that minimizes the deleterious effects of this condition.

Síndrome de Joubert / Joubert syndrome

El Síndrome de Joubert (SJ) es un raro trastorno autosómico recesivo con una incidencia de 1/100 000 a 1/150 000 nacidos vivos, considerado una ciliopatia que muestra tubulopatía renal, inmunodeficiencia y trastorno de la migración neuronal en cerebelo y tronco encefálico. El criterio diagnóstico más saltante es el “Signo del Molar” detectado por resonancia magnética cerebral, que identifica hipoplasia de los pedúnculos y vermis cerebeloso. Hasta el momento se han descrito seis subgrupos fenotípicos: SJ puro; SJ con defecto ocular (distrofia retiniana); SJ con defectos renales (no asociados a patolog¡a retiniana); SJ con defectos óculorrenales; SJ con defecto hepático y SJ con defectos orofaciodigitales (por ejemplo, lengua bífida, hamartomas múltiples, múltiples frenillos orales y polidactilia). La importancia de un diagnóstico precoz del SJ se puede reflejar en un posible mejor pronóstico y en la posibilidad de mejorar la calidad de vida del paciente con un manejo multidisciplinario y consejo genético para la prevención de nuevos casos en familias afectadas.

The Joubert Syndrome (JS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder with an incidence of 1 / 100000 to 1/150 000 births, considered a ciliopathy and showing renal tubular disease, immunodeficiency and impaired neuronal migration in the cerebellum and brain stem. The main diagnostic criterion is the identification of the “Molar sign” through cerebral magnetic resonance that identifies hypoplasia of cerebellar vermis and peduncles. So far six phenotypic subgroups have been described: JS pure; JS with ocular defect (retinal dystrophy); JS with kidney defects (not associated with retinal pathology); JS with oculorrenal defects; JS with liver defect, and JS with orofaciodigital defects (eg, split tongue, multiple hamartomas, multiple oral frenums and polydactyly). The importance of diagnosing JS at an early stage is related to a possibly better prognosis, and the possibility of improving the patient’s quality of life by means of a multidisciplinary management and provision of genetic counseling for prevention of new cases in affected families.

A neonate with Joubert syndrome presenting with symptoms of Horner syndrome / 소아과

Joubert syndrome (JS) is characterized by the “molar tooth sign” (MTS) with cerebellar vermis agenesis, episodic hyperpnea, abnormal eye movements, and hypotonia. Ocular and oculomotor abnormalities have been observed; however, Horner syndrome (HS) has not been documented in children with JS. We present the case of a 2-month-old boy having ocular abnormalities with bilateral nystagmus, left-dominant bilateral ptosis, and unilateral miosis and enophthalmos of the left eye, which were compatible with HS. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed the presence of the MTS. Neck MRI showed no definite lesion or mass around the cervical sympathetic chain. His global development was delayed. He underwent ophthalmologic surgery, and showed some improvement in his ptosis. To the best of our knowledge, the association of HS with JS has not yet been described. We suggest that early neuroimaging should be considered for neonates or young infants with diverse eye abnormalities to evaluate the underlying etiology.

A Case of Joubert Syndrome Accompanied with Retinal Abnormality

PURPOSE: Joubert syndrome is a rare disorder which affects the cerebellum and the brain stem. Herein, we report a case of Joubert syndrome accompanied with retinal abnormality. CASE SUMMARY: A 9-year-old female visited our hospital with chief complaints of low vision in both eyes, nystagmus, and lack of gaze movement. The best-corrected visual acuity in her right eye was 20/80 and in the left 20/80 and heterotropia was not observed. She appeared to have incomplete total color blindness on the color vision test. The anterior segment test showed no abnormal findings other than diffuse pigmentation and degeneration of the peripheral retina, vascular attenuation, and pale optic disc in both eyes on fundus examination. The patient showed overall developmental delay and decreased muscle tension, but genetic and congenital metabolic disease tests were normal. The molar tooth sign of the midbrain, defect in the lower part of the cerebellum and dilatation of the fourth ventricle were observed on magnetic resonance imaging. CONCLUSIONS: Appropriate evaluation of retinitis pigmentosa and visual function should be performed in Joubert syndrome patients.

Joubert Syndrome.

Joubert syndrome is a very rare condition seen in our country. Herein, we report a case of Joubert syndrome in a one year four months old, male baby from a consanguineous marriage presenting with delayed developmental milestone, hypotonia, abnormal respiratory pattern and nystagmus . Cranial MRI shows ‘‘Molar Tooth Sign’’.

Joubert’s Syndrome: A Case Report.

Joubert’s syndrome is an autosomal recessive congenital disorder having characteristic clinical features like hypotonia, ataxia, developmental delay and many neurological problems. Other variable features include retinal dystrophy, cystic kidney disease liver fibrosis etc. Treatment for Joubert syndrome is symptomatic and supportive. Infant stimulation and physical, occupational, and speech therapy may benefit some patients. Infants with abnormal breathing patterns should be monitored.

Joubert syndrome: large clinical variability and a unique neuroimaging aspect / Síndrome de Joubert: grande variabilidade clínica e uma neuroimagem característica

Joubert syndrome (JS) is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder characterized by hypotonia, cerebellar vermis hypoplasia, ocular abnormalities (e.g, pigmentary retinopathy, oculomotor apraxia and nystagmus), renal cysts and hepatic fibrosis. Respiratory abnormalities, as apnea and hyperpnea, may be present, as well as mental retardation. At least seven JS loci have been determined and five genes identified. Herein, we report five children, belonging to independent families, with JS: they shared the same typical MRI abnormality, known as molar tooth sign, but had an otherwise quite variable phenotype, regarding mostly their cognitive performance, visual abilities and extra-neurological compromise.

A síndrome de Joubert (SJ) é uma doença hereditária, autossômica recessiva, caracterizada por hipotonia, hipoplasia do vermis cerebelar, anormalidades oculares (p.ex., retinite pigmentar, apraxia oculomotora e nistagmo), cistos renais e fibrose hepática. Anormalidades respiratórias tais como apnéia e hiperpnéia podem estar presentes, assim como deficiência mental. Pelo menos sete loci e cinco genes diferentes associados à SJ já foram identificados. Este artigo relata cinco crianças com SJ, pertencentes a diferentes famílias. Todos os pacientes compartilham a mesma anormalidade típica da RM, conhecida como sinal do dente molar, e apresentam ampla variabilidade clínica em relação ao desempenho cognitivo, comprometimento visual e alterações extra-neurológicas.

Anesthetic management for a pediatric patient with joubert syndrome: A case report / 대한마취과학회지

Joubert syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive condition in which there is complete or partial agenesis of the cerebellar vermis. The clinical features are hypotonia, ataxia, mental retardation, abnormal ocular movements, typical facial features and episodic tachypnea with alternating apnea. The abnormal respiratory pattern and hypotonia may be exacerbated by anesthetics, and especially, the apneic episodes may be prolonged by administering opioids. Joubert syndrome has been associated with various airway abnormalities such as a high and arched palate, a large or protruding tongue, laryngomalacia, a variable epiglottis and micrognathia. These abnormalities may cause difficulty with tracheal intubation. In this present case, direct laryngoscope-assisted, fiberscopic guided intubation was performed. This case is the first report of anesthetic management in a patient with Joubert syndrome and who underwent palatoplasty in Korea.