ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Orofacial clefts are the most common malformations of the head and neck, with a worldwide prevalence of 1 in 700 births. They are commonly divided into CL(P) and CP based on anatomic, genetic, and embryologic findings. A Nigerian craniofacial anomalies study (NigeriaCRAN) was set up in 2006 to investigate the role of gene-environment interaction in the origin of orofacial clefts in Nigeria. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: DNA isolated from saliva from Nigerian probands was used for genotype association studies and direct sequencing of cleft candidate genes: MSX1 , IRF6 , FOXE1, FGFR1 , FGFR2 , BMP4 , MAFB, ABCA4 , PAX7, and VAX1 , and the chromosome 8q region. RESULTS: A missense mutation A34G in MSX1 was observed in nine cases and four HapMap controls. No other apparent causative variations were identified. Deviation from Hardy Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) was observed in these cases (p = .00002). A significant difference was noted between the affected side for unilateral CL (p = .03) and bilateral clefts and between clefts on either side (p = .02). A significant gender difference was also observed for CP (p = .008). CONCLUSIONS: Replication of a mutation previously implicated in other populations suggests a role for the MSX1 A34G variant in the development of CL(P).
Subject(s)
Black People/genetics , Cleft Lip/genetics , Cleft Palate/genetics , MSX1 Transcription Factor/genetics , Mutation, Missense/genetics , Case-Control Studies , Child , Child, Preschool , Cleft Lip/epidemiology , Cleft Palate/epidemiology , Female , Genotype , Humans , Infant , Infant, Newborn , Male , Nigeria/epidemiology , Polymerase Chain Reaction , Sequence Analysis, DNAABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Lymphoedema is a clinical condition involving the extremities that is characterized by accumulation of protein rich fluid within the intercellular space of the skin and the subcutaneous tissue. It most frequently occurs in the extremities. Developing countries are mostly faced with cases of secondary lymphoedema where patients present lately. In addition to swollen limbs, there are lot of skin changes on the affected limb, these create a lot of problems to the managing clinician. We hereby present five cases out of several patients managed to highlight the challenges. METHODS: We review the case notes of three patients managed by our unit and present the summary of each patient. RESULT: Majority of our patients present late to the hospital, mainly because of the socio-cultural and spiritual beliefs concerning the aetiology of the condition. Most of them have visited the spiritualist, herbalist and the clergymen for solution. Clinicians in the developing countries are seriously handicapped by lack of modern equipment for both diagnostic and therapeutic management of these clinical conditions. CONCLUSION: Chronic lymphoedema is a major cause of permanent disability. Excisional surgery such as Charles procedure even though old is still very much relevant in our environment. Patients need to be enlightened on the need for early presentation, adequate post-operative care and prolonged follow-up.
