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Pediatrics5 papers

Xp21 deletion syndrome

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Xp21 deletion syndrome encompasses a spectrum of clinical presentations including Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), milder dystrophic myopathies, adrenal hypoplasia, and glycerol kinase deficiency (GKD). This report introduces a novel association with agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC), suggesting additional genetic factors within the Xp21 region may influence corpus callosum development 1.

Diagnosis

  • Genetic Testing: Cytogenetic and molecular analyses to detect deletions within the Xp21 region, typically spanning at least 3 million base pairs 1.
  • Biochemical Assays: Evaluation for glycerol kinase deficiency to confirm GKD component 1.
  • Neuroimaging: MRI to diagnose agenesis of the corpus callosum, particularly relevant in cases with neurological symptoms 1.
  • Muscle Biopsy: To assess muscle pathology consistent with dystrophic myopathy 1.
  • Endocrine Function Tests: Assess adrenal function given the risk of adrenal hypoplasia 1.
  • Management

  • Symptomatic Treatment for Muscular Dystrophy: Physical therapy, respiratory support, and orthopedic interventions as needed 1.
  • Hormonal Replacement Therapy: For adrenal insufficiency, including glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid replacement 1.
  • Dietary Management: Specific dietary considerations for glycerol kinase deficiency, though detailed guidelines are not provided in the abstract 1.
  • Neurological Support: Multidisciplinary care addressing cognitive and motor impairments associated with ACC 1.
  • Special Populations

  • Pediatrics: Early diagnosis and intervention crucial for managing muscular dystrophy and adrenal insufficiency 1.
  • Comorbidities: Close monitoring for adrenal insufficiency and muscular complications, with tailored support for ACC-related neurological issues 1.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Perform comprehensive genetic testing including cytogenetic and molecular analyses to identify Xp21 deletions in patients with DMD, adrenal hypoplasia, and ACC 1 (Evidence: Moderate).
  • Include MRI for neuroimaging to diagnose ACC in patients with suspected Xp21 deletion syndrome 1 (Evidence: Moderate).
  • Initiate hormonal replacement therapy promptly for confirmed adrenal hypoplasia to prevent adrenal insufficiency 1 (Evidence: Moderate).
  • References

    1 Baranzini SE, del Rey G, Nigro N, Szijan I, Chamoles N, Cresto JC. Patient with an Xp21 contiguous gene deletion syndrome in association with agenesis of the corpus callosum. American journal of medical genetics 1997. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Patient with an Xp21 contiguous gene deletion syndrome in association with agenesis of the corpus callosum.Baranzini SE, del Rey G, Nigro N, Szijan I, Chamoles N, Cresto JC American journal of medical genetics (1997)

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