Harbeck B, Flitsch J, Kreitschmann-Andermahr I. Carney complex- why thorough medical history taking is so important - report of three cases and review of the literature.
Endocrine 2023;
80:20-28. [PMID:
36255590 PMCID:
PMC10060316 DOI:
10.1007/s12020-022-03209-2]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE
To present a new case series and to review the literature on Carney complex (CNC) with an emphasis on highlighting key clinical features of the disease and pointing out possibilities of shortening the diagnostic process.
METHOD
Searches of PubMed, identifying relevant reports up to April 2022.
RESULTS
CNC is a rare, autosomally dominant inherited neoplasia -endocrinopathy syndrome with high clinical variability, even among members of the same family. Data on length of diagnostic process are scarce with numerous case series reporting a diagnostic delay of decades. Suggestions to shorten the diagnostic process includes awareness of the multi-faceted clinical presentations of CNC, thorough history taking of index patients and family members and awareness of diagnostic pitfalls. Importantly, unusual symptom combinations should alert the clinician to suspect a rare endocrinopathy syndrome such as CNC. Already present and coming on the horizon are databases and novel phenotyping technologies that will aid endocrinologists in their quest for timely diagnosis.
CONCLUSION
In this review, we examine the current state of knowledge in CNC and suggest avenues for shortening the diagnostic journey for the afflicted patients.
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