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Infantile pyknocytosis

Last edited: 4/22/2026

Overview

Infantile systemic hyalinosis (ISH) is a rare, autosomal recessive disorder characterized by widespread hyaline deposition in connective tissues and organs, leading to severe multisystem manifestations including joint contractures, hyperpigmentation, gastrointestinal issues, and bone lesions 1.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical Presentation: Recurrent diarrhea, failure to thrive, refractory infections, painful joint contractures, hyperpigmentation, subcutaneous nodules, gingival hypertrophy 1.
  • Genetic Testing: Identification of mutations in the anthrax toxin receptor 2 (ANTXRL2) gene, such as c.134T>C; p.L45P 1.
  • Imaging and Laboratory: May reveal osteolytic bone lesions, pericardial effusion, and thrombotic events; protein-losing enteropathy can be confirmed with specific biomarkers 1.
  • Management

  • Supportive Care: Management of symptoms including nutritional support, anti-infective therapy for infections, and symptomatic relief for joint contractures 1.
  • Anticoagulation: Consideration for anticoagulation in cases of thrombosis, though specific dosing is not detailed 1.
  • Multidisciplinary Approach: Collaboration with pediatric specialists, gastroenterologists, and hematologists to address multisystem involvement 1.
  • Special Populations

  • Pediatrics: ISH predominantly affects infants and young children, with severe morbidity and high mortality rates observed 1.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Genetic Testing for ANTXRL2 Mutations: Essential for confirming diagnosis in suspected cases (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Aggressive Management of Infections: Early and thorough treatment of infections to prevent complications such as septic shock (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Monitor for Thrombotic Events: Regular monitoring and prompt intervention for thrombotic complications like right atrial thrombosis and pericardial effusion (Evidence: Weak 1).
  • References

    1 Mohamed S, Ahmed W, Al-Jurayyan N, Faqeih E, Al-Nemri A, Al-Ghamdi M. Infantile Systemic Hyalinosis Complicated with Right Atrial Thrombus and Pericardial Effusion in an Infant. Pediatrics and neonatology 2017. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Infantile Systemic Hyalinosis Complicated with Right Atrial Thrombus and Pericardial Effusion in an Infant.Mohamed S, Ahmed W, Al-Jurayyan N, Faqeih E, Al-Nemri A, Al-Ghamdi M Pediatrics and neonatology (2017)

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