Volume 9 • Number 1 • March 2022
Novel Mutation and VUS
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Background: X-linked agammaglobulinemia type 1 (XLA) is one of the most common pediatric inborn errors of immunity affecting the humoral immune system. The condition is caused by a mutation in the Bruton’s tyrosine kinase gene (BTK), located in the long arm of the X-chromosome. BTK is crucial for B lymphocyte differentiation and activation. Therefore, a defect in BTK results in B lymphocyte maturation arrest, absence of plasma cells, and failure of immunoglobulin production. XLA affected individuals present with a history of frequent severe pyogenic infections such as pneumonia, conjunctivitis, otitis media, and bacteremia. Laboratory evaluation classically reveals undetectable immunoglobulins and the absence of B cells. The mainstay treatment is immunoglobulin replacement which can be administered intravenously (IVIG) or subcutaneously (SCIG). Aggressive antimicrobial treatment is also administered to reduce complications such as bronchiectasis or invasive bacterial infections during active infections.Aim: To report the clinical presentation, immune features, and genetic mutation in a case of a four-year-old boy with a novel mutation in the BTK gene leading to XLA.Results: The patient’s chart was reviewed. We describe the phenotypical and diagnostic characteristics of an established case in a four-year-old boy who suffered from recurrent infections. Genetic analysis revealed a pathogenic novel mutation in the BTK gene (c.1953C>A; p.Tyr651*), while flow cytometry found 0% CD19+ (B cells), and low serum Ig levels.Discussion: We report the clinical presentation, immune features, and genetic mutation in a patient with a novel mutation in the BTK gene causing XLA. Genetic analysis along with patient history, physical examination, and laboratory results are necessary to identify and diagnose XLA associated with pathogenic mutations in the BTK gene.Statement of novelty: We present an established case of a novel mutation in the BTK gene (c.1953C>A; p.Tyr651*), based on genetic analysis, absent CD19+cells (B cells), and low Ig serum levels.
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Background: The T cell receptor (TCR)-α chain plays a key role in TCR structure and function. Biallelic mutations in TRAC, encoding the constant region of the TCR-α chain, obliterates TCR expression and results in immunodeficiency. TCR-α chain deficiency presents at infancy or childhood with repeated viral and bacterial infections, enlarged liver, spleen, and lymph nodes as well as autoimmune features and lymphoma (OMIM #615387).Aim: To broaden the genotypic and phenotypic spectrum of TCR-α chain deficiency.Methods: We present a case report of a patient with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) due to a novel autosomal recessive mutation in TRAC.Results: Our patient was identified at 13 days of life due to abnormal T cell receptor excision circle levels detected by newborn screening (NBS). Immune evaluation revealed profound lymphopenia, depressed responses to the mitogen PHA and a skewed T cell repertoire, all consistent with SCID. The patient was found to carry a novel homozygous mutation in the TRAC gene.Conclusion: A novel homozygous mutation in the TRAC gene caused profound T cell lymphopenia and aberrant in vitro mitogenic response, the hallmarks of SCID.Statement of Novelty: TCR-α chain deficiency is a rare and relatively new condition and not very well defined. We herein report a novel mutation in TRAC resulting in SCID.
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Introduction: The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway plays critical roles in diverse cellular processes, including differentiation, proliferation, motility, survival, and growth. PI3Kδ, comprised of the catalytic subunit p110δ and regulatory subunit p85α, is essential for normal lymphocyte and myeloid development and function. Gain-of-function mutations in PIK3CD (encoding p110δ) cause a combined immunodeficiency known as activated PI3Kδ syndrome (APDS), in which patients frequently present with recurrent respiratory infections, severe recurrent (or persistent) infections with herpes family viruses, and lymphadenopathy.Aim: To describe the clinical presentation, immune evaluation, and genetic work-up of 2 patients (daughter and mother) with recurrent sinopulmonary, soft tissue, and skin infections.Results: Both daughter and mother presented with recurrent sinopulmonary and soft tissue infections. Immune evaluation of the daughter revealed intermittent hypogammaglobulinemia and abnormal specific vaccine responses, while immune parameters of her mother were normal. Whole exome sequencing identified a novel mutation in PIK3CD (NM_005026), c.C719T, resulting in p.T240M. Western blot analysis of downstream AKT levels revealed increased basal phosphorylation, in line with gain-of-function mutations of PIK3CD.Conclusion: The novel missense mutation in PIK3CD occurs in the region encoding the Ras-binding domain (RBD) of p110δ, and likely alters the structural configuration of the domain. To date, pathogenic mutations targeting the RBD of p110δ have not yet been described. Our results expand on the genotypic spectrum of APDS.Statement of Novelty: We describe a novel mutation in the Ras-binding domain of PIK3CD leading to a presentation of recurrent sinopulmonary and soft tissue infections in the context of APDS.
Protocol, Practice, Policy
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A diagnosis of immunodeficiency can be challenging for families as they navigate the emotional impact of this diagnosis, as well the potential financial burden of treatment. As is the case with many rare diseases, there existed a paucity of information for families looking for appropriate resources related to their diagnosis. The Primary Immunodeficiency Social Work Network was established in 2011 by Immunodeficiency Canada to develop a network of social workers across Canada who work with patients diagnosed with primary immunodeficiency. This network has had a focus on support programs, education, and research. Resource guides were created by the network with the goal of providing comprehensive support and information on resources available for families and individuals affected by primary immunodeficiency in each province as well as those available nationally.Statement of Novelty: National and provincial resources guides, reviewed and updated yearly, have been created for families and individuals affected by primary immunodeficiency.