A Novel Variant of the LMAN1 Gene in Combined Factor V and Factor VIII Deficiency in a Saudi Female Child: A Case Report.

Combined factor V and factor VIII deficiency (F5F8D) is an exceedingly rare autosomal recessive disease that causes concomitantly low levels of factor V and factor VIII, leading to mild to moderate bleeding tendencies. Within this disorder, mutations manifest in the lectin mannose-binding protein (LMAN1) or multiple coagulation factor deficiency 2 (MCFD2) genes. This report presents a case of a five-year-old Saudi female child who was referred from an otolaryngology clinic, with an incidental finding of prolonged prothrombin time (PT), international normalized ratio (INR), and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) detected during routine preoperative investigations for tonsillectomy, prompting further investigations. There was no prior history of bleeding symptoms in the patient. She was discovered to have low assays of factor V and factor VIII on subsequent investigations. Whole exome sequencing revealed the novel homozygous mutation c.604C>T in the LMAN1 gene, validating the diagnosis of F5F8D.

A Rare MPIG6B Gene Mutation in a Saudi Adolescent Male With Thrombocytopenia, Anemia, and Myelofibrosis: A Case Report.

Thrombocytopenia, anemia, and myelofibrosis (THAMY) is an exceptionally rare autosomal recessive inherited disorder that arises from pathogenic variations in the megakaryocyte platelet inhibitor G6B (MPIG6B) gene. The MPIG6B gene plays a crucial role in regulating platelet homeostasis. The hallmarks of THAMY are macrothrombocytopenia and focal myelofibrosis, accompanied by varying degrees of anemia, leukocytosis, splenomegaly, and a mild to moderate propensity to bleed. In this case report, we present the clinical details of a 13-year-old male who displayed symptoms of anemia and bleeding as a result of thrombocytopenia. Analysis of the peripheral blood smear revealed the presence of macrothrombocytes, while physical examination showed splenomegaly. To delve deeper into the matter, a bone marrow biopsy was conducted, which unequivocally confirmed the existence of focal myelofibrosis. Subsequent genetic analysis validated the homozygous variant c.523C>T in the MPIG6B gene.

A Novel Variant in the DIAPH1 Gene Causing Macrothrombocytopenia and Non-syndromic Hearing Loss in a Pediatric Saudi Girl.

Macrothrompocytopenia (MTP) is a rare group of hereditary disorders that lead to impaired hemostasis. Macrothrompocytopenia mostly results from genetic mutations in genes implicated in megakaryocyte differentiation and function. Diaphanous-related formin 1 (DIAPH1) is a protein-coding gene. Dominant gain-of-function DIAPH1 variants cause macrothrombocytopenia and sensorineural deafness (autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss 1 (DFNA1)), while homozygous loss of DIAPH1 results in seizures, cortical blindness, and microcephaly syndrome (SCBMS). This rare genetic disease is characterized by progressive and severe hearing loss with onset in the first decade of life, is associated with mild thrombocytopenia, and has no significant bleeding tendency. This case report presents the clinical findings of a 14-year-old Saudi pediatric girl. We investigated the potential association of DIAPH1 as a novel candidate gene linked to dominant MTP and autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss (ADNSHL), which was evaluated through audiometry. Notably, a novel variant, c.3633_3636del, was identified in the DIAPH1 gene. To date, only a small number of mutations in this gene have been reported as the cause of MTP and ADNSHL.

Risk Prediction of Severe Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) Using the Respiratory Severity Score (RSS) in Extremely Preterm Infants: A Retrospective Study From Saudi Arabia.

Background Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a significant complication in extremely preterm infants. Therefore, early diagnosis of BPD is important for planning treatment strategies. In this study, we aimed to assess the predictive efficacy of the Respiratory Severity Score (RSS) in determining severe BPD or death outcomes in very preterm infants. Methodology This retrospective study included preterm infants born with a gestational age of ≤30 weeks. The inclusion criteria comprised individuals who were mechanically ventilated (<1 week) during the first four weeks of life. Any patients who died during the first seven days of life were excluded. RSS values were recorded on days 3, 14, 21, and 28 of life. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify a correlation between RSS and patient outcomes. Results A total of 154 infants were included in the analysis, of whom 82 (53.24%) developed severe BPD and 38 (24.67%) died. RSS was higher in patients who either died or developed severe BPD compared to those who survived. The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that RSSs at postnatal day 14 (odds ratio (OR) = 3.970; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.114-14.147; p < 0.05), day 21 (OR = 6.201; 95% CI = 1.937-19.851; p < 0.05), and day 28 (OR = 8.925; 95% CI = 3.331-28.383; p < 0.05) was significantly associated with a higher risk of death or severe BPD. Conclusions The findings of the present study revealed that RSS can help predict the risk of severe BPD in very preterm infants.

Familial Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (FHLH) Perforin Deficiency: A Case Study and Literature Review.

Hemophagocytic lymphohistocytosis (HLH) is a severe and fatal immunological disorder that is either primary (i.e., familial) or secondary (i.e., acquired). The primary type comprises autosomal recessive disorders with gene mutations related to natural killer cells and cytotoxic T-cells, whereas the secondary type is related to other pathological causes, such as Epstein-Barr virus, bacterial or fungal infection, autoimmune conditions or autoinflammatory diseases, metabolic disorders, and cancer. In this report, we discuss a 37-day-old male who was brought to the emergency room with fever, decreased activity, and hepatosplenomegaly, with a strong family history of unknown cause of death for three siblings who died at the ages of one to two months. A whole exome sequencing confirmed the clinical diagnosis of familial HLH due to mutation in the PRF1 gene. We note the special importance of genetic counselling and antenatal screening or early neonatal screening in families affected by HLH, as this case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and intervention of primary HLH.

Gray Platelet Syndrome in a Neonate With VACTERL Association: A Novel Homozygous Pathogenic Variant c.5257C>T in the NBEAL2 Gene.

Gray platelet syndrome is a rare hereditary autosomal recessive condition distinguished by a mild to moderate propensity toward bleeding, moderate reduction in platelet count, and a significant decrease or complete absence of platelet alpha granules. VACTERL association is a condition of specific birth defects affecting multiple organ systems, with an unknown etiology. The acronym stands for vertebral anomalies (V), anal anomalies (A), cardiac anomalies (C), tracheoesophageal fistula (TE), renal anomalies or radial bone anomalies (R), and limb defects (L). To diagnose the VACTERL association, at least three of the aforementioned abnormalities should be present. This case report concerns a neonate born with a left absent thumb, a hypoplastic right thumb, an imperforate anus, and an atrial septal defect. During postoperative investigations, after addressing an anorectal malformation, the patient was found to have moderate thrombocytopenia and large gray platelets upon examination of a peripheral blood smear. A genetic analysis validated the pathogenic homozygous mutation c.5257C>T in the NBEAL2 gene, which corresponds to gray platelet syndrome.

Recurrent Meningitis and Its Rare Association With Ligneous Conjunctivitis and Congenital Plasminogen Deficiency.

This case report explores the rare association of recurrent meningitis, hydrocephalus, ligneous conjunctivitis, and congenital plasminogen deficiency in a term baby boy. Born at 39 weeks with a history of hydrocephalus, the neonate later developed ligneous conjunctivitis and a serious bout of meningitis. Genetic analyses confirmed a homozygous mutation in the PLG gene, indicative of congenital plasminogen deficiency. Despite intensive treatment, including a ventriculoperitoneal shunt for hydrocephalus and intravenous antibiotics for meningitis, the child succumbed to upper airway obstruction before reaching one year of age. This report underscores the medical complexity and severity of these interconnected conditions and advocates for further research to understand the interplay between them. Although this study is limited by its single-case nature and is not generalizable, it emphasizes the necessity for early recognition and a multidisciplinary treatment approach for better patient outcomes.

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) Due to Fulminant Salmonella Sepsis in the Setting of IL12Rß1 (Interleukin 12 Receptor Beta 1) Deficiency.

Interleukin 12 receptor beta 1 (IL12Rß1) deficiency is the most common cause of Mendelian susceptibility to mycobacterial disease (MSMD). MSMD usually predisposes the affected individuals to infections with weakly virulent mycobacteria such as Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG), environmental mycobacteria, non-typhoidal Salmonella, and certain other intracellular pathogens. MSMD usually presents with disseminated BCG infection after exposure to the BCG vaccine. Infections with non-typhoidal Salmonella are considered the second most common manifestation of MSMD; however, severe presentation with such organisms is unusual. In this report, we describe a case of a previously healthy infant who was found to have IL12Rß1 deficiency after she presented with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) secondary to severe Salmonella enterica sepsis. This case report highlights the importance of considering the diagnosis of MSMD in any patient presenting with severe non-typhoidal Salmonella infections even in the absence of any exposure to low-virulent mycobacteria.

Infantile Systemic Hyalinosis: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Infantile systemic hyalinosis (ISH) is a very rare disorder belonging to the heterozygous group of genetic fibromatosis. There is a diffuse deposition of hyaline material in the skin, gastrointestinal tract, muscle, lymph node, spleen, thyroid, and adrenal gland due to which it presents clinically with multiple subcutaneous skin nodules, gingival hypertrophy, osteopenia, joint contractures, failure to thrive, and diarrhea with protein-losing enteropathy, and is associated with recurrent infections. The disease is caused by mutations in ANTXR2 also known as the CMG2 gene, which encodes the transmembrane-extracellular matrix assembly. In this report, we describe a nine-month-old male diagnosed with ISH based on the clinical presentation of severe skin lesions, painful joint contractures, diarrhea, and failure to thrive. His diagnosis was confirmed by molecular DNA sequencing of the ANTXR2 gene. Consanguinity and molecular diagnosis will be helpful for early diagnosis and accurate management.

Pulmonary Embolism in an Adolescent With May-Thurner Syndrome: A Case Report.

May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) is a pathological variant where the left iliac vein is compressed by the right iliac artery. Usually common in females between the third and fourth decades of life, this case report is about MTS in an adolescent girl. The patient was overweight and had a sedentary lifestyle. She developed a sudden onset of unilateral left leg deep venous thrombosis (DVT), leading to low-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) within a week of the symptoms starting. The patient received a heparin infusion for one week, after which she was switched to subcutaneous low-molecular-weight heparin. Apart from the initial high D-dimer, the rest of the thrombophilia workup was unremarkable. The whole exome sequencing (WES) study was negative. An inferior vena cava (IVC) filter was not advised for her due to the small size of the clot and her age. The patient responded well to heparin alone and was discharged home on enoxaparin.

Congenital Factor X-Riyadh (Stuart-Prower) Deficiency With Isolated Prothrombin Time Prolongation: A Case Report.

Factor X (FX) deficiency is an extremely rare autosomal recessive inherited coagulation defect. We report a case of congenital Factor X-Riyadh deficiency discovered during a routine workup before a dental procedure. During routine work-up for dental surgery, prothrombin time (PT) and the international normalized ratio (INR) were prolonged. The prothrombin time (PT) was found to be 78.4 (normal 11-14 seconds) with an international normalized ratio (INR) of 7.83; the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) was 30.7 (normal 25-42 seconds). Specific coagulation factor assays confirmed an FX deficiency (<10 % of normal activity) and a mild factor VII deficiency 37% (normal 48%-124%). Molecular genetic analysis of the whole exome sequence (WES) confirmed the diagnosis of FX deficiency (homozygous pathogenic variant c. 271G>A p {Glu91Lys} chr13:113793685). The patient is currently on regular follow-up and is advised to take oral antifibrinolytic medications for any superficial or mucosal bleeding.

LAD-III, a Mild Phenotype Resulting From a Novel Variant of FERMT3 Gene: A Case Report.

Leukocyte adhesion deficiency-III (LAD-III) is a rare recessive autosomal disorder characterized by bleeding syndrome of Glanzmann-type and life-threatening infections. The main etiology of this condition is variations in the FERMT3 gene, which encodes kindlin-3, an integrin-binding protein. This protein is responsible for the activation of fibrinogen receptors and integrin-mediated hematopoietic cell adhesion. So far, only limited cases of LAD-III have been reported. This case report discusses a two-year-old male infant from the Asir region, Saudi Arabia, who was referred to the pediatric hematology service due to recurrent ecchymosis and epistaxis. He was born at full term with a history of transient tachypnea of the newborn and recurrent bronchiolitis. The patient exhibited normal platelet count and coagulation profiles alongside a familial history of bleeding disorders, including a cousin with a similar condition. The patient also presented with hypospadias and café-au-lait spots. Laboratory findings revealed anemia, microcytosis, and hypochromia indicative of iron deficiency anemia. Whole exome sequencing (WES) identified a homozygous variant of uncertain significance in the FERMT3 gene, associated with autosomal recessive LAD-III. The patient was subsequently referred to an immunology subspecialty for further investigation and bone marrow transplant preparation. This case underscores the importance of comprehensive clinical and genetic evaluations in pediatric patients with unexplained bleeding tendencies.

Large Head in Asymptomatic Child: A Subtle Presentation of Connective Tissue Disorder With Spontaneous Significant Intracerebral Bleed.

Three years old boy with reassuring development had presented to the Pediatric Neurology clinic with a referral due to a large head. Occipito-frontal circumference was more than 97th centile with an unremarkable neurological examination. MRI brain exhibited an acute on chronic large right frontoparietal subdural hematoma with prominent mass effect. Consequentially, the hematoma was evacuated by the neurosurgeon. Postoperative recovery stayed satisfactory. Hematology workup showed normal coagulation and clotting factors levels. Whole exome sequencing (WES) study revealed heterozygous variant c.5187G>A p.(Trp1729*) in gene FBN1 - pathogenic for Marfan syndrome. However, this variant has not yet been reported in association with cerebral arteritis/intracerebral bleed. On follow-up, the child remained asymptomatic clinically with static head size. This drags us towards the fact that significant yet asymptomatic spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage can be an infrequent presentation in pediatrics in regard to connective tissue disorders. Moreover, children with Marfan syndrome having variant c.5187G>A p.(Trp1729*) of gene FBN1 can have a rare presentation with cerebral arteritis or intracerebral bleed.

Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis Type 3 Homozygous Pathogenic Variant c.2906G>A in the ATP Binding Cassette Subfamily B Member 4 (ABCB4) Gene: A Case Report of an Unusual Presentation.

Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) describes a heterogeneous group of autosomal-recessive childhood liver disorders in which cholestasis of hepatocellular origin frequently manifests during infancy or the first year of life and progresses to liver failure. We report a case of a five-year-old boy with homozygous pathogenic variant c.2906G>A in the ATP binding cassette subfamily B member 4 (ABCB4) gene presented with hepatosplenomegaly and cytopenia without a history of jaundice or itching; he had a history of Epstein-Barr virus infection and family history of liver disease. The patient was started on ursodeoxycholic acid and fat-soluble vitamins and referred to a liver transplant center.

Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia: Phenotype Resulting From a Novel Variant of LRRC56 Gene.

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) involves cilia impairment, with resultant symptoms of repeated respiratory infections, sinusitis, and infertility. We report a seven-year-old boy of Arab ethnicity, with consanguineous parents, who was identified to have situs inversus totalis in neonatal life. There was a significant family history of ciliopathy as situs inversus totalis, infertility, and recurrent respiratory infections were noted in his two paternal uncles. From five months of age, the child started to have recurrent hospital visits due to respiratory infections. Infancy was marked by failure to thrive along with delay in achieving developmental milestones. Next-generation sequencing of known or potential ciliopathy genes revealed him homozygous for a novel mutation c.494T>C of the LRRC56 gene, thus defining PCD as a potential cause of his features.