Baraitser–Winter syndrome: An additional Arab patient

An Arab child is presented herein with a phenotype that fits the rare Baraitser–Winter syndrome. Her clinical features included a unilateral iris coloboma, ptosis, hypertelorism, epicanthic folds, broad nasal bridge, full cheeks, pointed chin, low set abnormal ears and short neck. In addition, she had cardiac defect, previously undescribed brain anomaly, seizures, hypotoniaand developmental delay. Chromosomal analysis of the peripheral lymphocytes and FISH study revealed a normal 46, XX karyotype. To date, Baraitser–Winter syndrome has only been reported in 19 patients of different ethnic families. The present case adds a new finding to the spectrum ofmalformations published before

Partial duplication of chromosome 8p: Report of 5 patients and review of literature

The partial chromosome 8p duplication is a rare syndrome and is associated with a characteristic phenotype, including multiple congenital anomalies and mental retardation of various degrees. However, different outcomes depend on the size and location of the duplicated area. We present clinical and cytogenetic data of 5 Arab patients with de novo inversion duplication of 8p. This report provides additional cases to the growing literature. Keywords: Chromosome duplication, multiple congenital anomalies, mental retardation, phenotype Egypt. J. Hum. Genet Vol. 8 (2) 2007: pp. 199-20

Current treatments in familial dysautonomia

INTRODUCTION: Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a rare hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy (type III). The disease is caused by a point mutation in the IKBKAP gene that affects the splicing of the elongator-1 protein (also known as IKAP). Patients have dramatic blood pressure instability due to baroreflex failure, chronic kidney disease, and impaired swallowing leading to recurrent aspiration pneumonia, which results in chronic lung disease. Diminished pain and temperature perception results in neuropathic joints and thermal injuries. Impaired proprioception leads to gait ataxia. Optic neuropathy and corneal opacities lead to progressive visual loss. AREAS COVERED: This article reviews current therapeutic strategies for the symptomatic treatment of FD, as well as the potential of new gene modifying agents. EXPERT OPINION: Therapeutic focus on FD is centered on reducing the catecholamine surges caused by baroreflex failure. Managing neurogenic dysphagia with effective protection of the airway passages and prompt treatment of aspiration pneumonias is necessary to prevent respiratory failure. Sedative medications should be used cautiously due to risk of respiratory depression. Non-invasive ventilation during sleep effectively manages apneas and prevents hypercapnia. Clinical trials of compounds that increase levels of IKAP (ELP-1) are underway and will determine whether they can reverse or slow disease progression