Topology of constitutional reciprocal translocations in metaphase.

We studied in 39 carriers of 26 reciprocal translocations (including five de novo and seven of indeterminate occurrence) the metaphase localization of the derivative chromosomes, their normal non-homologous counterparts (here called A and B), and two control pairs (C and D). In eight familial translocations, we analysed two to five carriers. We digitally captured 10 G-banded lymphocyte metaphases per individual and measured in microns the largest diameter (d) of the metaphase and six intercentromeric distances: (1) der A<-->der B (problem distance 1, pd1), (2) der A<-->B (pd2), (3) der B<-->A (pd3), (4) A<-->B (control distance 1, cd1), (5) the smaller distance between C and D (cd2) and (6) the largest distance between C and D (cd3); in addition, the average between C and D (cd4) was calculated. We used the formula Delta = 100(cd - pd)/d 12 times per metaphase, compared each pd vs. each cd, and tested the differences by the Wilcoxon matched-pair test. Although, in the whole sample there were not significant differences respect to cd1, this distance emerged as the proper control. In the eight familial translocations, the three pd vs. cd1 comparisons revealed that in 19/24 times the pd was smaller but only once reached significance (cd1 vs. pd2 in t[3;4]). In the analysis per individual the pd was smaller than cd1 in 19 (pd1), 22 (pd2) and 22 (pd3) cases although only twice reached significance. We conclude that in some translocations, the derivative chromosomes actually lie close from each other or from a normal non-homologous counterpart.

Pure partial trisomy 6p due to a familial insertion (16;6)(p12;p21.2p23).

There have only been eight patients with 6p pure trisomy involving different segments: four cases resulted from a translocation or insertion and four were due to an intrachromosomal duplication. We report here the first postnatally ascertained patient with a pure 6p partial trisomy due to an interchromosomal insertion (16;6)(p12;p21.2p23)mat. This rearrangement was confirmed by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) with whole chromosome 6 and 16 painting probes. The clinical findings in the present patient were similar to those observed in previous cases, including craniofacial dysmorphism, minor anomalies, and lack of severe anatomical defects; yet, the unspecificity of many of these features prevented us from delineating the 6p pure trisomy syndrome.