Campomelic dysplasia: echographic suspicion in the first trimester of pregnancy and final diagnosis of two cases

Fetal Diagn Ther. 2008;24(4):452-7. doi: 10.1159/000176299. Epub 2008 Nov 26.

Abstract

Objective: Campomelic dysplasia (CD) is a rare skeletal dysplasia characterized by marked femoral and tibial angulations, hypoplasic scapulae, normal upper limbs and sex reversal in 3/4 of 46,XY fetuses. Most cases are lethal in the neonatal period. Heterozygous mutations in the SOX9 gene are responsible for CD. The diagnosis is not usually made until the mid-second trimester or later.

Methods: We describe 2 cases of CD suspected by ultrasonography in the first trimester.

Results: The 2 cases presented with hygroma colli along with anomalies in the lower but not the upper limbs. Terminations of pregnancy were obtained at 14+3 and 20+6 gestational weeks. Fetopathological examinations confirmed sonographic findings.

Conclusion: When first trimester hygroma colli is accompanied by specific findings of the lower limbs, the diagnosis of CD can be investigated through SOX9 mutation analysis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abortion, Induced
  • Adult
  • Base Sequence
  • Campomelic Dysplasia / diagnostic imaging*
  • Campomelic Dysplasia / genetics*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Genetic Testing / methods*
  • Gestational Age
  • Humans
  • Point Mutation
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Trimester, First
  • SOX9 Transcription Factor / genetics*
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal*

Substances

  • SOX9 Transcription Factor
  • SOX9 protein, human