Ophthalmic manifestations in neurofibromatosis type 1

Inner retinal layer thickness alterations in adult and pediatric patients with neurofibromatosis 1

This study compared the thickness of each intraretinal layer in patients with neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) and controls to analyze the association between intraretinal layer thickness and visual function. The macular spectral-domain optical coherence tomography volumetric dataset obtained from 68 eyes (25 adult eyes, 43 pediatric eyes) with NF1 without optic glioma and 143 control eyes (100 adult eyes, 43 pediatric eyes) was used for image auto-segmentation. The intraretinal layers segmented from the volumetric data included the macular retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL), inner nuclear layer, outer plexiform layer, outer nuclear layer, and photoreceptor layer. Cases and controls were compared after adjusting for age, sex, refractive error, and binocular use. The association between retinal layer thickness and visual acuity was also analyzed. The GCIPL was significantly thinner in both adult and pediatric patients with NF1 compared with healthy controls. Average RNFL and GCIPL thicknesses were associated with visual acuity in adult patients with NF1. In pediatric patients, average GCIPL thickness was associated with visual acuity. These results suggest that changes in the inner retinal layer could be a biomarker of the structural and functional status of patients with NF1.

RETINAL DIALYSIS AND ASSOCIATED RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT IN PATIENTS WITH NEUROFIBROMATOSIS TYPE 1: A CASE SERIES

PURPOSE

Although ophthalmic manifestations of neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1), including iris Lisch nodules and optic gliomas, have been well described, retinal involvement in these patients has yet to be established. Characterizing the relationship between NF1 and the retina is necessary to optimize outcomes for these patients.

METHODS

Independent chart review of NF1 patients was conducted.

RESULTS

Chart review yielded four patients, with a history of NF1, with subsequent retinal dialysis and rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. These four patients presented to our institution with a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment secondary to a retinal dialysis with no history of trauma. These patients also demonstrated hyperreflective choroidal abnormalities on near-infrared reflectance imaging and optical coherence tomography.

CONCLUSION

Seeing that patients diagnosed with NF1 are susceptible to various ocular manifestations and pathological abnormalities, routine ophthalmic examinations are essential in maintaining their ocular health and minimizing morbidity.

Pathological findings in enucleated eyes of patients with neurofibromatosis type 1: report of a case with 15-year follow-up and review of 14 patients in the literature

BACKGROUNDS

Iris nodules are frequently noted as clinical manifestations of neurofibromatosis type 1 but the other intraocular manifestations are rare. The purpose of this study is to present a patient with a phthisic eye who underwent enucleation for a cosmetic reason after 15-year follow-up and also to review 14 patients with enucleation described in the literature.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 17-year-old man with neurofibromatosis type 1 from infancy underwent the enucleation of phthisic left eye and also had the resection of eyelid subcutaneous mass lesions on the left side for a cosmetic reason. He had undergone four-time preceding surgeries for eyelid and orbital mass reduction on the left side in childhood and had developed total retinal detachment 10 years previously. Pathologically, the enucleated eye showed massive retinal gliosis positive for both S-100 and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the area with involvement of the detached retinal neuronal layer, together with a more fibrotic lesion along the choroid which were, in contrast, negative for both S-100 and GFAP. The choroid, ciliary body, and iris did not show apparent neurofibroma while episcleral neurofibroma was present.

LITERATURE REVIEW

In review of enucleated eyes of 14 patients in the literature, buphthalmic eyes with early-onset glaucoma on the unilateral side was clinically diagnosed in 9 patients who frequently showed varying extent of hemifacial neurofibromatosis which involved the eyelid and orbit on the same side. Pathologically, neurofibromas in varying extent were found in the choroid of 12 patients. One patient showed choroidal malignant melanoma on the left side and fusiform enlargement of the optic nerve on the right side suspected of optic nerve glioma. The phthisic eye in another patient showed massive retinal gliosis similar to the present patient.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary of the 15 patients with neurofibromatosis type 1, including the present patient, buphthalmic or phthisic eyes with no vision were enucleated for cosmetic reasons and showed choroidal neurofibroma in most patients and massive retinal gliosis in two patients including the present patient.

Neurofibromatosis Type 1-Retinal Alterations Detectable with Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF 1) is a multisystemic genetic disorder involving aberrant proliferation of multiple tissues of a neural crest origin. It represents a tumor predisposition syndrome characterized by a wide range of clinical manifestations, such as benign tumors, which primarily affect the skin and the nervous system. The most frequent clinical signs of NF 1 include café-au-lait spots all over the surface of the skin and axillary freckling; however, these signs can be accompanied by more severe manifestations such as the growth of both benign and malignant nervous system tumors and skeletal dysplasia, as well as a wide range of ocular manifestations. We report the rare case of retinal microvascular alterations and choroidal nodules in a 15 year old male patient with NF 1, detectable on optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). The hyperreflective choroidal nodules modified the profile of the choroidal vasculature. The retinal microvascular alterations in the form of clustered capillaries were detected in the superficial capillary plexus located nasally to the macular region. Retinal vascular abnormalities undetectable on fundus photography or fundoscopy can be present in patients with NF 1. Indirect ophthalmoscopy of our study patient was unremarkable. However, retinal vascular abnormalities were seen on OCTA scans in the superficial capillary plexus and choroidal nodules were detected on raster OCT scans. OCTA represents a useful imaging technique for detecting retinal microvascular abnormalities, which can be considered additional distinctive signs of NF 1.

A novel stop-gain NF1 variant in neurofibromatosis type 1 and bilateral optic atrophy without optic gliomas

BACKGROUND

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a multisystem disorder that primarily affects the skin and peripheral nervous system and is caused by chromosomal abnormalities and mostly truncating variants in the NF1 gene. Ocular complications such as Lisch nodules and optic pathway gliomas (OPGs) can occur in NF1 patients. Herein, we report a novel NF1 variant in an NF1 patient with bilateral optic atrophy.

METHODS

Ophthalmological examinations and genetic analyses were performed using targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS).

RESULTS

A 14-year-old girl diagnosed with NF1 visited our hospital with decreased visual acuity (VA). The patient had no family history of NF1 or visual impairment. Brain and orbital magnetic resonance imaging revealed no remarkable findings. Ophthalmoscopy revealed temporal pallor of the optic discs, which was confirmed by optical coherence tomography findings of significant thinning of the circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer in both eyes. At 23 years of age, the decimal-corrected VA had deteriorated to 0.2 in the right eye and 0.1 in the left eye. Additionally, the targeted NGS panel revealed a novel heterozygous stop-gain variant (p.Tyr628Ter) in the NF1 gene; however, no pathogenic variants in OPA1 or the mitochondrial DNA were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

A patient with NF1 without OPGs developed bilateral optic atrophy and carried a novel de novo stop-gain variant of NF1. Although the relationship between NF1 variants and bilateral optic atrophy remains unclear, further investigations are required.

Ophthalmologic Findings in Children with Neurofibromatosis Type 1

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ophthalmologic findings in children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and compare these findings in eyes with and without optic pathway gliomas (OPGs). We carried out a retrospective chart review of children with NF1. We recorded demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations of disease, and ophthalmologic findings including visual acuity, intraocular pressure, cup-to-disc ratio, visual field testing, and optical coherence tomography findings. Ophthalmologic findings were examined for the cohort for initial and final appointments. These findings were also compared between eyes with and without OPGs. The study included 119 participants with 238 total eyes. The most common clinical manifestations of NF1 in this cohort were café au lait macules (98%), axillary or inguinal freckling (91%), Lisch nodules (66%), and cutaneous neurofibromas (57%). Thirty-seven participants had imaging that allowed evaluation for choroidal abnormalities, and 28 (76%) had choroidal lesions. Twenty-seven participants (23%) had OPGs, and 44 eyes were affected. On initial assessment, eyes with OPGs had worse visual acuity. On final examination, eyes with OPGs were more likely to have a worse visual acuity and a thinner generalised retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness, inferior RNFL thickness, and temporal RNFL thickness. This study provides longitudinal follow-up of children affected by NF1 with and without OPGs. Eyes with OPGs were found to be associated with worse visual acuity and thinner RNFLs overall on final testing.

Insights into Novel Choroidal and Retinal Clinical Signs in Neurofibromatosis Type 1

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a rare inherited neurocutaneous disorder with a major impact on the skin, nervous system and eyes. The ocular diagnostic hallmarks of this disease include iris Lisch nodules, ocular and eyelid neurofibromas, eyelid café-au-lait spots and optic pathway gliomas (OPGs). In the last years, new manifestations have been identified in the ocular district in NF1 including choroidal abnormalities (CAs), hyperpigmented spots (HSs) and retinal vascular abnormalities (RVAs). Recent advances in multi-modality imaging in ophthalmology have allowed for the improved characterization of these clinical signs. Accordingly, CAs, easily detectable as bright patchy nodules on near-infrared imaging, have recently been added to the revised diagnostic criteria for NF1 due to their high specificity and sensitivity. Furthermore, subclinical alterations of the visual pathways, regardless of the presence of OPGs, have been recently described in NF1, with a primary role of neurofibromin in the myelination process. In this paper, we reviewed the latest progress in the understanding of choroidal and retinal abnormalities in NF1 patients. The clinical significance of the recently revised diagnostic criteria for NF1 is discussed along with new updates in molecular diagnosis. New insights into NF1-related neuro-ophthalmic manifestations are also provided based on electrophysiological and optical coherence tomography (OCT) studies.

Prominent corneal nerves in pure mucosal neuroma syndrome, a clinical phenotype distinct from multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2B

BACKGROUND

Pure mucosal neuroma syndrome (MNS), an autosomal dominant neurocutaneous disorder, is a rare discrete subgroup in multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type 2B, which present without associated endocrinopathies of MEN2B but with typical physical features such as prominent corneal nerves. Case presentation This report describes a 41-year-old patient with complaint of itchy eyes and irritation, presenting with blocked gland orifices in the upper and lower eyelids, light conjunctival hyperemia, a semitransparent neoplasm measuring 2 mm*2 mm on the nasal limbus suggestive of neuromas, and prominent corneal nerves. In vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) revealed structural alterations-namely a prominent hyperreflective, thickened nerve plexus and a normal endothelium-in both eyes. Testing for SOS1 mutation was positive. This patient may represent a discrete subgroup termed pure mucosal neuroma syndrome (MNS), which presents with the characteristic appearance of MEN2B but without RET gene mutations.

CONCLUSION

Prominent corneal nerves have been described in some diseases, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type 1 and type 2A and 2B, congenital ichthyosis, Refsum's disease, leprosy, etc. Ophthalmic assessment including prominent corneal nerves has proven valuable in asymptomatic individuals of MEN2B. Our case illustrates the importance of recognizing the ocular features of MNS, a rare presentation of MEN2B, in order to prevent prophylactic thyroidectomy in these patients for prophylactic thyroidectomy is not mandatory in MNS. However, regular monitoring and genetic counseling are still necessary.

Brain Tumors Affecting the Orbit Globe and Orbit Tumors Affecting the Brain

Brain tumors affecting the orbit and orbital tumors affecting the brain are a heterogeneous group of lesions, with histological features, behaviors, diagnostic criteria, and treatments varying from each other. Dermoid cyst and cavernous hemangiomas are considered the most frequent benign lesions, while non-Hodgkin lymphoma is the most common malignant tumor in this region. Sharing the same anatomical region, clinical manifestations of orbital lesions may be often common to different types of lesions. Imaging studies are useful in the differential diagnosis of orbital lesions and the planning of their management. Lesions can be classified into ocular or extra-ocular ones: the latter can be further differentiated into extraconal or intraconal, based on the relationship with the extraocular muscles. Surgical therapy is the treatment of choice for most orbital lesions; however, based on the degree of removal, their histology and extension, other treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, are indicated for the management of orbital lesions. In selected cases, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the primary treatments. This chapter aimed to discuss the orbital anatomy, the clinical manifestations, the clinical testing and the imaging studies for orbital lesions, and the principal pathological entities affecting the orbit together with the principles of orbital surgery.

Sphenoid dysplasia in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1: Clinical features and imaging findings including cerebrospinal fluid alterations

INTRODUCTION

Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF-1) is a genetic disorder that occurs in 1:2500-3000 live births and may involve multiple organs. An uncommon but well-known phenomena is sphenoid dysplasia, which appears in 3-11% of the patients, and may result in significant lowering of the orbit. Understanding the cause and development of this process might predict its course and its treatment.

METHODS

The records of 29 patients with PNF in the head and neck region were searched for location of the PNF and type of surgery. Photographs were studied for facial disturbances, including vertical dystopia, hypertelorism, ptosis, exophthalmos and enophthalmos. MR and CT scans were studied for the presence of PNF, aspect of the sphenoid bone, alteration in the CSF circulation, and other tumour involvement.

RESULTS

Fourteen of 29 patients with PNF in the head and neck presented with sphenoid dysplasia. All 14 patients had their PNF located in the periorbital region. Increased locoregional CSF collections were seen in almost all of these patients. Besides glioma of the optical nerve or hamartomas in the cerebrum and cerebellum, there were no other tumours found. Surgical treatment varies from simple excision to excessive debulking of the PNF, reconstruction of the orbit and even enucleation.

CONCLUSION

Although sphenoid dysplasia is uncommon in NF-1 patients, early recognition is important to prevent facial disfigurement and vision loss. Clinicians should be aware that abnormalities in the periorbital region and especially vertical dystopia might be the first sign of sphenoid dysplasia. Performing a CT or black-bone MR scan would be the next step to confirm or exclude sphenoid dysplasia and abnormal CSF dynamics.

Symptomatic enophthalmos due to sphenoid wing dysplasia appearing over 12 years in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1: a case report and literature review

Sphenoid wing dysplasia (SWD) is a common orbital complication of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). However, enophthalmos associated with SWD is extremely rare, and details of its natural history are unclear. We present the case of a 14-year-old boy with an early childhood diagnosis of NF1 presenting with left blepharophimosis and enophthalmos for several months. Imaging demonstrated enlargement of the left lateral SWD, progression of the posteromedial deviation of the orbital contents, and sphenoid/ethmoid sinus deformation due to left temporal lobe compression over 12 years. Two characteristic changes were revealed on imaging: enlargement of the middle cranial fossa and deformation of the sphenoid/ethmoid sinuses. The orbital contents were compressed by the intracranial pressure of the temporal lobe and were displaced posteromedially into the space created by the deformed sphenoid/ethmoid sinuses. Because orbital symptoms can gradually become apparent over years with the progression of SWD and skeletal growth, long-term follow-up of orbital symptoms is recommended in patients with NF1.

Neurofibromatosis from Head to Toe: What the Radiologist Needs to Know

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) are autosomal dominant inherited neurocutaneous disorders or phakomatoses secondary to mutations in the NF1 and NF2 tumor suppressor genes, respectively. Although they share a common name, NF1 and NF2 are distinct disorders with a wide range of multisystem manifestations that include benign and malignant tumors. Imaging plays an essential role in diagnosis, surveillance, and management of individuals with NF1 and NF2. Therefore, it is crucial for radiologists to be familiar with the imaging features of NF1 and NF2 to allow prompt diagnosis and appropriate management. Key manifestations of NF1 include café-au-lait macules, axillary or inguinal freckling, neurofibromas or plexiform neurofibromas, optic pathway gliomas, Lisch nodules, and osseous lesions such as sphenoid dysplasia, all of which are considered diagnostic features of NF1. Other manifestations include focal areas of signal intensity in the brain, low-grade gliomas, interstitial lung disease, various abdominopelvic neoplasms, scoliosis, and vascular dysplasia. The various NF1-associated abdominopelvic neoplasms can be categorized by their cellular origin: neurogenic neoplasms, interstitial cells of Cajal neoplasms, neuroendocrine neoplasms, and embryonal neoplasms. Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors and intracranial tumors are the leading contributors to mortality in NF1. Classic manifestations of NF2 include schwannomas, meningiomas, and ependymomas. However, NF2 may have shared cutaneous manifestations with NF1. Lifelong multidisciplinary management is critical for patients with either disease. The authors highlight the genetics and molecular pathogenesis, clinical and pathologic features, imaging manifestations, and multidisciplinary management and surveillance of NF1 and NF2. Online supplemental material is available for this article. ^©RSNA, 2022.

The Prevalence of Ocular Manifestations in the Various Types of Common Skin Disorders at Tertiary Hospital in Ahmedabad, India

Aim

The article aims to study the prevalence and ocular manifestations of the various types of common skin disorders at a tertiary hospital in Ahmedabad, India. 

Materials and methods

Five hundred patients were studied in the ophthalmology department from September 2017 to September 2019.

Results

Out of the 500 patients that were included in our study, 312 were males, and 188 were females. In our study, lid involvement was seen most commonly in patients with herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO). Plexiform neurofibroma was seen in eight (14.5%) patients with neurofibromatosis (NF). Cicatricial ectropion was found in half of the patients with ichthyosis. Lagophthalmos was present in 10 (20.4%) patients with leprosy. Conjunctivitis was seen commonly in HZO patients. Papillary conjunctivitis was seen in half of the atopic dermatitis cases. Steven Johnson's syndrome (SJS) was associated with pseudomembranous conjunctivitis. Conjunctival xerosis was seen only in patients with Sjogren's syndrome. The cornea was most commonly involved in patients of HZO. Decreased corneal sensation was seen in leprosy and HZO. Lisch nodules were seen in NF cases. Anterior uveitis was found in seven (6.3%) patients with HZO. Glaucoma was seen most commonly in patients with Sturge Weber syndrome (SWS), followed by leprosy. Facial nerve palsy was seen in patients with leprosy. Episcleritis was seen in patients with leprosy and SWS.

Conclusion

We conclude that ocular involvement in skin disease is a common feature and could be a major component of the development of various systemic skin disorders.

Artificial Intelligence in Predicting Systemic Parameters and Diseases From Ophthalmic Imaging

Artificial Intelligence (AI) analytics has been used to predict, classify, and aid clinical management of multiple eye diseases. Its robust performances have prompted researchers to expand the use of AI into predicting systemic, non-ocular diseases and parameters based on ocular images. Herein, we discuss the reasons why the eye is well-suited for systemic applications, and review the applications of deep learning on ophthalmic images in the prediction of demographic parameters, body composition factors, and diseases of the cardiovascular, hematological, neurodegenerative, metabolic, renal, and hepatobiliary systems. Three main imaging modalities are included—retinal fundus photographs, optical coherence tomographs and external ophthalmic images. We examine the range of systemic factors studied from ophthalmic imaging in current literature and discuss areas of future research, while acknowledging current limitations of AI systems based on ophthalmic images.

Neurofibromatosis 1: A family case series

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) or Von Recklinghausen disease comes under a group of multisystem hereditary syndromes called phakomatoses. It presents with skin, ophthalmic, bony, and systemic manifestations. We present a photographically well-documented case series of NF in a family (n = 3). Skin manifestations were present in all the patients. The ophthalmic manifestations were Lisch nodules (100% of eyes), subcutaneous neurofibroma of eyelids (33% of eyes), mechanical ptosis (33% of eyes), and mechanical ectropion (16.5% of eyes). We report the rare occurrence of multiple solitary neurofibromas causing mechanical ptosis and mechanical ectropion.

Progressive ectropion uveae and secondary angle-closure glaucoma in type 1 neurofibromatosis

Purpose

To present a case of progressive ectropion uveae and secondary angle-closure glaucoma in association with type 1 neurofibromatosis (NF-1).

Observation

An 11-year-old-Hispanic-male with a known history of NF-1 who was followed for the ocular manifestations of NF-1 developed an irregular pupil and ectropion uveae in the right eye at the age of 3 years that gradually increased in severity. The area of ectropion uveae increased in size and extended superiorly with concurrent superior synechial angle closure and intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation. The patient subsequently developed chronic angle-closure glaucoma that could not be controlled with medical therapy. He underwent successful implantation of an aqueous drainage device which resulted in excellent intraocular pressure reduction.

Conclusions and Importance

Ectropion uveae can be progressive and lead to the development of extensive angle closure in patients with NF-1. Despite the low incidence of glaucoma in patients with NF-1, the presence of ectropion uveae in this condition necessitates careful observation of the anterior segment, including the anterior chamber angle and close monitoring of the IOP.

Correlation Between Ophthalmologic and Neuroradiologic Findings in Type 1 Neurofibromatosis

BACKGROUND

Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF-1) is a genetic disease affecting the eye, and ocular findings such as Lisch nodules (LN) or optic pathway gliomas (OPGs) are a part of its diagnostic criteria. Recent imaging technologies such as infrared (IR) imaging and optical coherence tomography (OCT) have highlighted the visualization of choroidal focal abnormalities in these patients, even in the absence of other ocular lesions. This study aimed to establish a morphological multimodal evaluation of choroidal findings in patients with NF-1, correlating them with central nervous system (CNS) findings.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 44 eyes from 22 patients with NF-1. Central 30° IR imaging was obtained, and the number and total area of detectable lesions were calculated. Both macular and optic disc scanning with OCT were performed, with and without the enhanced depth imaging technique, to assess the presence of choroidal focal hyperreflective lesions. Central macular thickness, ganglion cell layer, and outer nuclear layer thickness were assessed, as well as subfoveal choroidal thickness. The peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness was also assessed. Patients' magnetic resonance images (MRI) were reviewed and categorized by a neuroradiology specialist, determining the presence of OPGs and CNS hamartomas. Correlations between the ophthalmological and neuroradiological findings were established.

RESULTS

Patients' mean age was 16.4 ± 7.3 years and 59.1% were women. On the MRI, 86.4% of the patients had CNS hamartomas, and 34.1% of the eyes had OPGs. LN were described in 29.5% of the eyes, whereas a total of 63.4% of the eyes presented the characteristic hyperreflective lesions in IR imaging, all of them matching the underlying choroidal lesions. A mean of 2.9 ± 3.3 lesions per eye and a median total lesion area of 1.52 mm2 were found. The presence of OPGs was correlated with a greater number (P = 0.004) and a larger area (P = 0.006) of IR lesions. For a cut-off of 3.5 lesions per eye, the sensitivity and specificity for the presence of OPGs were 75% and 80%, respectively. For a total lesion area of 2.77 mm2, the sensitivity and specificity for the presence of OPGs were 69.2% and 93.1%, respectively. Eyes with OPGs presented a significant reduction in the temporal RNFL (P = 0.018) thickness, as well as a reduction in subfoveal choroid thickness (P = 0.04). No relations were found between CNS hamartomas and ophthalmological findings.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that focal choroidal abnormalities are correlated with the presence of CNS lesions as OPGs in patients with NF-1, and it might be a surrogate for the need for CNS imaging in these patients.

Practical Genetics for the Neuroradiologist: Adding Value in Neurogenetic Disease

Genetic discoveries have transformed our understanding of many neurologic diseases. Identification of specific causal pathogenic variants has improved understanding of pathophysiology and enabled replacement of many confusing eponyms and acronyms with more meaningful and clinically relevant genetics-based terminology. In this era of rapid scientific advancement, multidisciplinary collaboration among pediatricians, neurologists, geneticists, radiologists, and other members of the health care team is increasingly important in the care of patients with genetic neurologic diseases. Radiologists familiar with neurogenetic disease add value by (1) recognizing constellations of characteristic imaging findings that are associated with a genetic disease before one is clinically suspected; (2) predicting the most likely genotypes for a given imaging phenotype in clinically suspected genetic disease; and (3) providing detailed and accurate descriptions of the imaging phenotype in challenging cases with unknown or uncertain genotypes. This review aims to increase awareness and understanding of pathogenic variants relating to neurologic disease by (1) briefly reviewing foundational knowledge of chromosomes, inheritance patterns, and mutagenesis; (2) providing concrete examples of and detailed information about specific neurologic diseases resulting from pathogenic variants; and (3) highlighting clinical and imaging features that are of greatest relevance for the radiologist.

NEUROFIBROMATOSIS TYPE I AND ITS DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA: A CLINICAL OBSERVATION

The aim - to consider the etiopathogenesis, the main clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria of NF1, and present a clinical case from their practice. The paper analyzes the research findings in recent publications, focused on the studied issue using the methods of continuous sampling, synthesis and generalization, bibliosemantic evaluation and content analysis. In order to attract the attention of family physicians, neurologists, dermatologists, ophthalmologists, surgeons and other specialists, we present our own clinical observation of NF1. The patient was examined using the methods of neurological examination, as well as other laboratory and instrumental methods of research. Early diagnosis and medical examination of patients with NF1 is crucial for predicting and improving the quality of life of patients. NF1 is a complex disease where the cooperation of doctors of different specialties is important. A favorable prognosis for patients is associated with the possibility of early diagnosis of malignant transformation and timely treatment.

[Prognostic factors of neurofibromatosis type 1-associated optic pathway gliomas in children]

INTRODUCTION

Optic pathway glioma (OPG) is a classic complication of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and can impair visual function in children with this condition. The objective of this study is to describe clinical, paraclinical and prognostic characteristics of OPG associated with NF1.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective observational study of children followed for OPG associated with NF1 in a University Hospital, we analyzed the ophthalmological examination, brain and orbital imaging, management and the presence of associated endocrinopathy.

RESULTS

We examined 114 children with NF1, of which 26 (22.81%) presented with OPG. Mean ages at diagnosis of NF1 and OPG were 3.83 years and 6.23 years, respectively. Mean visual acuity was 20/24.4 for the worse eye and 20/23.1 for the better eye. The RNFL (retinal nerve fiber layer) was thinner in subjects than in age-matched controls (p <0.0001). Retrochiasmal location of the OPG (DodgeC) was associated with lower binocular visual acuity than other locations and <20/32 (p=0.028); 28.03% of OPG (5 girls and 1 boy) were treated with chemotherapy, and the others were monitored; 19.23% had an associated endocrinopathy.

CONCLUSIONS

OPG complicates 22.81% of NF1 cases in our series. Our study shows that retrochiasmal location of the glioma and female sex are poor prognostic factors. It also highlights the important role of OCT, since a decrease in RNFL is statistically associated with the presence of an OPG.

What Every Internist-Endocrinologist Should Know about Rare Genetic Syndromes in Order to Prevent Needless Diagnostics, Missed Diagnoses and Medical Complications: Five Years of 'Internal Medicine for Rare Genetic Syndromes'

Patients with complex rare genetic syndromes (CRGS) have combined medical problems affecting multiple organ systems. Pediatric multidisciplinary (MD) care has improved life expectancy, however, transfer to internal medicine is hindered by the lack of adequate MD care for adults. We have launched an MD outpatient clinic providing syndrome-specific care for adults with CRGS, which, to our knowledge, is the first one worldwide in the field of internal medicine. Between 2015 and 2020, we have treated 720 adults with over 60 syndromes. Eighty-nine percent of the syndromes were associated with endocrine problems. We describe case series of missed diagnoses and patients who had undergone extensive diagnostic testing for symptoms that could actually be explained by their syndrome. Based on our experiences and review of the literature, we provide an algorithm for the clinical approach of health problems in CRGS adults. We conclude that missed diagnoses and needless invasive tests seem common in CRGS adults. Due to the increased life expectancy, an increasing number of patients with CRGS will transfer to adult endocrinology. Internist-endocrinologists (in training) should be aware of their special needs and medical pitfalls of CRGS will help prevent the burden of unnecessary diagnostics and under- and overtreatment.

Ophthalmic manifestations in Costello syndrome caused by Ras pathway dysregulation during development

BACKGROUND

Costello syndrome (CS) is a multisystem developmental disorder caused by germline pathogenic variants in HRAS resulting in dysregulation of the Ras pathway. A systematic characterization of ophthalmic manifestations provides a unique opportunity to understand the role of Ras signal transduction in ocular development and guide optimal ophthalmic care in CS individuals.

METHODS

Visual function, ocular features and genotype/phenotype correlations were evaluated in CS individuals harboring HRAS pathogenic variants, by cross-sectional and retrospective studies, and were recruited through the Costello Syndrome Family Network (CSFN) between 2007 and 2020.

RESULTS

Fifty-six molecularly diagnosed CS individuals including 34 females and 22 males, ages ranging from 0.5 to 37 years were enrolled. The most common ophthalmic manifestations in the cross-sectional study were lack of stereopsis (96%), refractive errors (83%), strabismus (72%), nystagmus (69%), optic nerve hypoplasia or pallor (55%) and ptosis (13.7%) with higher prevalence than in the retrospective data (refractive errors (41%), strabismus (44%), nystagmus (26%), optic nerve hypoplasia or pallor (7%) and ptosis (11%)). Visual acuities were found to ranged from 20/25 to 20/800 and contrast sensitivity from 1.6% to 44%. HRAS pathogenic variants included p.G12S (84%), p.G13C (7%), p.G12A (5.4%), p.G12C (1.8%) and p.A146V (1.8%).

CONCLUSION

Majority of individuals with CS have refractive errors, strabismus, nystagmus, absent stereopsis, and optic nerve abnormalities suggesting that HRAS and the Ras pathway play a vital role in visual system development. Ptosis, refractive errors and strabismus are amenable to treatment and early ophthalmic evaluation is crucial to prevent long-term vision impairment and improve overall quality of life in CS.

Neurofibromatosis type 1 presenting with retinal detachment and laryngeal plexiform neurofibroma in a toddler

Purpose

To present a 22-month-old girl with a complete retinal detachment who was found to have systemic exam findings consistent with neurofibromatosis type 1 during the course of multi-specialty exam under anesthesia.

Observations

During examination under anesthesia, ophthalmic exam findings demonstrated retinal detachment with cyst formation, as well as peripheral non-perfusion of the retina in the left eye. Non-ophthalmic findings discovered on difficulty with intubation included a laryngeal plexiform neurofibroma and café-au-lait spots.

Conclusions

Pediatric retinal detachments are uncommon compared to those in adults. Pediatric patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 can present with vision loss as the presenting symptom. Systemic signs and symptoms should be carefully screen and monitored.

Severe Phenotype in Patients with Large Deletions of NF1

Complete deletion of the NF1 gene is identified in 5-10% of patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Several studies have previously described particularly severe forms of the disease in NF1 patients with deletion of the NF1 locus, but comprehensive descriptions of large cohorts are still missing to fully characterize this contiguous gene syndrome. NF1-deleted patients were enrolled and phenotypically characterized with a standardized questionnaire between 2005 and 2020 from a large French NF1 cohort. Statistical analyses for main NF1-associated symptoms were performed versus an NF1 reference population. A deletion of the NF1 gene was detected in 4% (139/3479) of molecularly confirmed NF1 index cases. The median age of the group at clinical investigations was 21 years old. A comprehensive clinical assessment showed that 93% (116/126) of NF1-deleted patients fulfilled the NIH criteria for NF1. More than half had café-au-lait spots, skinfold freckling, Lisch nodules, neurofibromas, neurological abnormalities, and cognitive impairment or learning disabilities. Comparison with previously described "classic" NF1 cohorts showed a significantly higher proportion of symptomatic spinal neurofibromas, dysmorphism, learning disabilities, malignancies, and skeletal and cardiovascular abnormalities in the NF1-deleted group. We described the largest NF1-deleted cohort to date and clarified the more severe phenotype observed in these patients.

Trametinib for orbital plexiform neurofibromas in young children with neurofibromatosis type 1

INTRODUCTION

Plexiform neurofibromas (PNF) in neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) are usually diagnosed in childhood and can grow rapidly during this period. In 10% of patients, PNF involve the orbital-periorbital area and may cause visual problems including glaucoma, visual loss from amblyopia (deprivational, strabismic, or refractive), optic nerve compression, or keratopathy. Ptosis, proptosis, and facial disfigurement lead to social problems and decreased self-esteem. Complete surgical removal involves significant risks and mutilation, and regrowth after debulking is not uncommon. Inhibitors of the RAS/MAPK pathway have recently been investigated for their activity in PNF. We administered the oral MEK inhibitor trametinib to five young children with NF1 and PNF of the orbital area, with visual compromise and progressive tumor growth; and followed them clinically and by volumetric MRI.

METHODS

Treatment was initiated at a mean age of 26.8 months (SD ± 12.8) and continued for a median 28 months (range 16-51). Doses were 0.025 mg/kg/day for children aged > 6 years and 0.032 mg/kg/day for those aged < 6 years.

RESULTS

Volumetric MRI measurements showed a reduction of 2.9-33% at 1 year after treatment initiation, with maximal reductions of 44% and 49% in two patients, at 44 and 36 months, respectively. No change in visual function was recorded during treatment. One child reported decreased orbital pain after 2 weeks; and another, with involvement of the masseters, had increased ability to chew food. Toxicities were mostly to skin and nails, grades 1-2.

CONCLUSIONS

Trametinib can decrease tumor size in some young children with orbital PNF and may prevent progressive disfigurement.

Corneal endothelial cells and central corneal thickness in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphological properties of corneal endothelial cells and central corneal thickness (CCT) in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and to compare them with age-matched healthy controls.

Methods:

Nineteen NF1 patients and 38 healthy individuals were recruited. All participants underwent complete ophthalmological examination as well as noncontact specular microscopy to measure endothelial cell density (ECD), average cell area (AVG), coefficient of variation of cell area (CV), the percentage of hexagonal cells, and CCT. Eyes with previous ocular trauma, inflammation or surgery, and preexisting corneal and ocular surface diseases were excluded.

Results:

NF1 patients had higher ECD compared to healthy controls of the same age (2764.2 ± 270.4 versus 2570.4 ± 449.2 cells/mm, respectively), although at a borderline level (P = 0.051). Patients with NF1 presented significantly lower CV and AVG when compared to controls (32.9 ± 4.6 versus 37.8 ± 9.5%, P = 0.011 and 364.9 ± 34.4 versus 406.0 ± 107.4 µm, P = 0.038, respectively). The NF1 group had significantly higher hexagonality in comparison with controls (55.7 ± 6.5 versus 50.5 ± 9.9%, P = 0.025). CCT was similar between the two groups (P = 0.955).

Conclusion:

Our results show that corneal endothelium has more favorable morphological characteristics in NF1 patients compared to healthy individuals of the same age.

Ocular biometric parameters changes and choroidal vascular abnormalities in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 evaluated by OCT-A

Purpose

To analyze ocular biometric parameters alterations of the posterior pole and choroidal abnormalities in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) by adopting multimodal imaging, especially focusing on the role of novel diagnostic devices like swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA).

Methods

In this prospective, case-controlled study, patients with NF1 and age-matched control subjects were quantitatively analyzed by using multimodal imaging. All the subjects underwent confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO), SS-OCT and SS-OCTA examinations.

Results

SS-OCT analysis revealed a lower macular retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in patients with NF1 compared with those with suspected NF1 (95.0±15.9 vs 109.7±11.3 μm; P = 0.001) and control subjects (106.8±14.4 μm, P = 0.003). Retinal thickness was significantly lower in NF1 patients compared to those with suspected NF1 (280.7±23.0 vs 304.2±15.3 μm; P < 0.001) and control subjects (298.7±23.8 μm, P = 0.003). The mean vascular flow area of the SCP was significantly higher in patients with NF1 (42.6±2.2%) and suspected NF1 (43.1±2.5%) compared to control subjects (41.0±2.0%; respectively, P = 0.017 and P = 0.002). In the second choroidal layer, the flow area was significantly lower in patients with NF1 compared to control subjects (45.4±4.8 vs 49.0±4.0%,; P = 0.011).

Conclusions

Retinal thicknesses alterations and choroidal nodules are described as ocular manifestations in patients with NF1. In addition, OCTA could represent an important novel advanced imaging technique, capable of detecting early altered retinal and choroidal vascular flow area in patients with NF1.

Hyperpigmented spots at fundus examination: a new ocular sign in Neurofibromatosis Type I

BACKGROUND

Neurofibromatosis Type I (NF1), also termed von Recklinghausen disease, is a rare genetic disorder that is transmitted by autosomal dominant inheritance, with complete penetrance and variable expressivity. It is caused by mutation in the NF1 gene on chromosome 17 encoding for neurofibromin, a protein with oncosuppressive activity, and it is 50% sporadic or inherited. The disease is characterized by a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, mainly involving the nervous system, the eye and skin, and a predisposition to develop multiple benign and malignant neoplasms. Ocular diagnostic hallmarks of NF1 include optic gliomas, iris Lisch nodules, orbital and eyelid neurofibromas, eyelid café-au-lait spots. Choroidal nodules and microvascular abnormalities have recently been identified as additional NF1-related ocular manifestations. The present study was designed to describe the features and clinical significance of a new sign related to the visual apparatus in NF-1, represented by hyperpigmented spots (HSs) of the fundus oculi.

RESULTS

HSs were detected in 60 (24.1%) out of 249 patients with NF1, with a positive predictive value of 100% and a negative predictive value of 44.2%. None of the healthy subjects (150 subjects) showed the presence of HSs. HSs were visible under indirect ophthalmoscopy, ultra-wide field (UWF) pseudocolor imaging and red-only laser image, near-infrared reflectance (NIR)-OCT, but they were not appreciable on UWF green reflectance. The location and features of pigmentary lesions matched with the already studied NF1-related choroidal nodules. No significant difference was found between the group of patients (n = 60) with ocular HSs and the group of patients (n = 189) without ocular pigmented spots in terms of age, gender or severity grading of the disease. A statistically significant association was demonstrated between the presence of HSs and neurofibromas (p = 0.047), and between the presence of HSs and NF1-related retinal microvascular abnormalities (p = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

We described a new ocular sign represented by HSs of the fundus in NF1. The presence of HSs was not a negative prognostic factor of the disease. Following multimodal imaging, we demonstrated that HSs and choroidal nodules were consistent with the same type of lesion, and simple indirect ophthalmoscopy allowed for screening of HSs in NF1.

Neurofibromatosis Type 1-Associated Optic Pathway Glioma in Children: A Follow-Up of 10 Years or More

PURPOSE

This study reports on neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1)-associated optic pathway gliomas (OPGs) and a follow-up period of at least 10 years in a cohort of children. OPGs are a common manifestation of NF1 and can cause significant visual morbidity. Long-term follow-up in children with NF1-associated OPGs has not been reported previously.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational case series.

METHODS

This study included children with a documented follow-up of at least 10 years. Three final outcomes were evaluated: visual acuity (VA) per eye (i.e., in the more severely affected eye), VA per patient (i.e., VA when both eyes were open), and the presence of optic nerve head pallor.

RESULTS

A total of 45 children were included, followed for a mean of 14 years (range, 10-21 years). At the end of follow-up, abnormal VA (considered moderate to severe impairment) in the more severely affected eye was present in 36% of the patients and in both eyes in 11%. Optic nerve head pallor of 1 or both nerves was present in 62%. In multivariate analysis, only initial VA and optic nerve head appearance at presentation were found to predict the final outcomes. All patients, except for 1, were asymptomatic at presentation and had normal VA and nerves that appeared normal, preserved their good vision in both eyes. Only 1 patient, who had normal VA and normal appearing nerves at presentation, had moderate to severe VA loss at long term follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, children with NF1-associated OPG whose examination signs and symptoms were normal had a normal initial examination and excellent long-term visual and anatomical outcomes. VA and the appearance of the optic nerve head at presentation predict long-term outcome.

Neurofibromatosis Type 1: Ocular Electrophysiological and Perimetric Anomalies

INTRODUCTION

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a multisystemic disease caused by the mutation of Nf1 gene located on chromosome 17q11.2. The mutation determines the loss of function of the protein neurofibromin with consequent uncontrolled cellular proliferation. Patients are characterized by a wide range of dermatological, neurological, and ophthalmological symptoms.

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to evaluate, through pattern visual evoked potentials (p-VEPs) and frequency doubling technology (FDT) Matrix perimetry, the objective and psychophysical functionality of the optic pathways in a group of NF1 patient.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 26 patients affected by NF1 and 17 healthy controls. Each patient underwent a complete ophthalmological examination, p-VEPs with the evaluation of amplitude and latency of the P100 wave, and FDT perimetry, with the evaluation of central sensitivity (CS), mean deviation (MD), pattern standard deviation (PSD) and glaucoma hemifield test (GHT).

RESULTS

NF1 patients showed a statistically significant alteration in the transmission of visual impulse. P-VEPs results highlighted a reduced amplitude and an increased latency of the P100 wave, suggesting an involvement of the visual pathway. Visual field analysis showed a significant reduction in all the observed parameters as well (CS, MD, PSD, and GHT).

CONCLUSION

The present study showed, in NF1 patients, a qualitative and quantitative alteration in the conduction of stimuli through the visual pathways. The observed alterations are present, although, only at a subclinical level. None of the patients included in the study showed any manifest visual deficit nor had any concomitant pathology that might have affected the outcome of the study. In conclusion, electrophysiological exams and computer perimetry may take part, alongside a wider array of exams, in the differential diagnosis and later monitoring of NF1.

Understanding the Biological Activities of Vitamin D in Type 1 Neurofibromatosis: New Insights into Disease Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Design

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble steroid hormone playing a pivotal role in calcium and phosphate homeostasis as well as in bone health. Vitamin D levels are not exclusively dependent on food intake. Indeed, the endogenous production-occurring in the skin and dependent on sun exposure-contributes to the majority amount of vitamin D present in the body. Since vitamin D receptors (VDRs) are ubiquitous and drive the expression of hundreds of genes, the interest in vitamin D has tremendously grown and its role in different diseases has been extensively studied. Several investigations indicated that vitamin D action extends far beyond bone health and calcium metabolism, showing broad effects on a variety of critical illnesses, including cancer, infections, cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. Epidemiological studies indicated that low circulating vitamin D levels inversely correlate with cutaneous manifestations and bone abnormalities, clinical hallmarks of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). NF1 is an autosomal dominant tumour predisposition syndrome causing significant pain and morbidity, for which limited treatment options are available. In this context, vitamin D or its analogues have been used to treat both skin and bone lesions in NF1 patients, alone or combined with other therapeutic agents. Here we provide an overview of vitamin D, its characteristic nutritional properties relevant for health benefits and its role in NF1 disorder. We focus on preclinical and clinical studies that demonstrated the clinical correlation between vitamin D status and NF1 disease, thus providing important insights into disease pathogenesis and new opportunities for targeted therapy.

Biometric and refractive errors evaluation in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1

PURPOSE

To analyze biometric changes and prevalence of refractive in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1).

METHODS

Retrospective, case-controlled study involving patients affected by NF1 and healthy control subjects. Data on biometric measurements such as axial length (AL), central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT), keratometry (K1 and K2) values, and white-to-white (WTW), obtained by use of optical low-coherence reflectometry on a Lenstar LS 900^® (Haag-Streit AG, Switzerland) were collected and analyzed. Cycloplegic refractions were then performed.

RESULTS

Overall, 166 eyes of 83 patients diagnosed with NF1 (mean age 21.6 ± 9.8) were enrolled and compared with 178 eyes of age-matched healthy subjects (mean age 22.6 ± 6.6). One hundred sixty-six (22.8%) and 33 of 178 (18.5%) eyes were myopic in NF1 patients and healthy subjects, respectively. The prevalence of hyperopia in the NF1 group was 12 of 166 (7.2%) whereas in the healthy control group was 14 of 178 (8.9%). Twenty-nine of 166 (17.4%) and 34 of 178 (19.1%) eyes presented astigmatism in NF1 and control group, respectively. These differences were not statistically significant (p-values > 0.05). Refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism were similar between the two groups. The difference of AL, CCT, ACD, LT, K values, and WTW were no statistically significant between the two groups (p-values > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Refractive errors and ocular biometric parameter seem not to be an addition findings of NF1.

Neovascular glaucoma in a pediatric patient with neurofibromatosis type 1: a case report

Background

To report a case of a young patient with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1).

Methods: Here we review the treatment administered to a 7-year-old NF1 patient with neovascular glaucoma as the primary diagnosis.

Case presentation

A 7-year-old boy developed visual loss in the right eye associated with periocular pain and ipsilateral headache that had persisted for 1 week. The patient’s condition did not improve after treatment with topical or systemic glaucoma medications. Fundus examination of the right eye showed superotemporal retinal vasoproliferative tumors (RVPT). Near-infrared reflectance scans of the left eye’s fundus revealed bright patchy regions, scattered across the posterior pole; systemic examination showed café-au-lait spots all over the patient’s body. The patient had a clear family history. Genetic testing confirmed NF1. The right eye was treated with intravitreal ranibizumab injection, retinal lesion cryotherapy, and transscleral ciliary body photocoagulation. After treatment, RVPT scarring was observed. The patient’s intraocular pressure remained within normal limits.

Conclusions

We report a rare case of neurofibromatosis in a pediatric patient with neovascular glaucoma accompanied by RVPT. We suggest that evaluations of young patients with neovascular glaucoma should include careful attention to the overall condition of the patient and his/her parents, as well as family history. If necessary, NF1 molecular testing should be performed to avoid a missed diagnosis or misdiagnosis.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of cataracts in pediatric and young adult patients

Background

The goal of this study is to systematically evaluate the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal characteristics and size of cataracts that may be encountered in pediatric and young adult patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of the MRI features with cataracts in a series of cases, including characterization of signal intensity on T2-weighted and T1-weighted sequences, as well as measuring the thickness of the lens.

Results

Among nine cataracts in seven patients, three lenses were thickened and hyperintense on T2-weighted sequences, presumably related to osmotic effects. The rest of the lenses were either normal in size and signal characteristics, such as in the cases of neurofibromatosis type 2 or small in cases of microphthalmos, with signal characteristics related to calcifications.

Conclusions

There are several different types of cataracts that can occur in pediatric and young adult patients, which may or may not be conspicuous on MRI. The findings in this study can serve as a guide for what abnormalities of the lens may be encountered on MRI.

Retinal microvascular abnormalities in neurofibromatosis type 1

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to provide a classification of the different retinal vascular arrangements in neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1), with appropriate qualitative and quantitative information.

METHODS

This study was conducted on 334 consecutive patients with NF1 and 106 sex-matched and age-matched healthy control subjects. Each patient underwent a comprehensive ophthalmological examination inclusive of near-infrared reflectance retinography by using the spectral domain Optical coherence tomography (OCT), a complete dermatological examination and 1.5 T MRI scan of the brain to assess the presence of optic nerve gliomas. To evaluate the predictability and the diagnostic accuracy of our identified retinal microvascular arrangements, we calculated the diagnostic indicators for each pattern of pathology, with corresponding 95% CI. In addition, we evaluated the association between the microvascular arrangements and each National Institutes of Health diagnostic criteria.

RESULTS

Microvascular abnormalities were detected in 105 of 334 NF1 patients (31.4%), the simple vascular tortuosity was recognised in 78 of 105 cases (74.3%) and whether the corkscrew pattern and the moyamoya-like type showed a frequency of 42.8% (45 of 105 cases) and 15.2% (16 of 105 cases), respectively. We found a statistically significant correlation between the presence of retinal microvascular abnormalities and the patient age (p=0.02) and between the simple vascular tortuosity, the patient age and the presence of neurofibromas (p=0.002 and p=0.05, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

We identified microvascular alterations in 31.4% of patients and a statistically significant association with patient age. Moreover, the most frequent type of microvascular alterations, the simple vascular tortuosity, resulted positively associated with age and with the presence of neurofibromas.

Novel Three-Dimensional Morphometry to Reassess Orbit Deformities Associated With Orbital-Periorbital Plexiform Neurofibroma

BACKGROUND

Orbit deformities are usually found in neurofibromatosis type 1 patients, especially those with orbital-periorbital plexiform neurofibroma (OPPN). Unfortunately, current morphometry is complicated and, in some cases, cannot be performed on the deformed orbit due to the destruction of landmarks. Herein, we present a novel 3-dimensional (3D) morphometry for these orbital measurements.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 29 patients with OPPN, and another 29 disseminated cutaneous neurofibroma patients served as controls. All patients had undergone craniofacial computed tomography and 3D reconstruction. New morphometry was used to measure the area of the orbital rim (OR) and superior orbital fissure (SOF).

RESULTS

For the 29 patients with OPPN, the area of the OR at the affected side was 14.18 ± 3.50 cm, while the OR at the nonaffected side was 12.32 ± 1.38 cm. In addition, the area of the SOF at the affected side was 5.37 ± 5.75 cm, while that at the nonaffected side was 1.27 ± 1.03 cm. The OR and SOF at the affected side are more likely to become enlarged compared with those at the nonaffected side. Among the 29 patients with OPPN, the novel morphometry could be performed in 19 cases (65.5%) that cannot be measured by previous morphometry.

CONCLUSION

The novel morphometry is convenient and reproducible, which optimizes its application in pathologic cases, especially those involving deformed orbits.

Prenatal and postnatal presentation of PRMT7 related syndrome: Expanding the phenotypic manifestations

Protein arginine methyltransferase 7 (PRMT7) is a member of a family of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of methyl groups from S-adenosyl-l-methionine to nitrogen atoms on arginine residues. Arginine methylation is involved in multiple biological processes, such as signal transduction, mRNA splicing, transcriptional control, DNA repair, and protein translocation. Currently, 10 patients have been described with mutations in PRMT7. The shared findings include: hypotonia, intellectual disability, short stature, brachydactyly, and mild dysmorphic features. We describe the prenatal, postnatal, and pathological findings in two male sibs homozygote for a mutation in PRMT7. Both had intrauterine growth restriction involving mainly the long bones. In addition, eye tumor was found in the first patient, and nonspecific brain calcifications and a systemic venous anomaly in the second. The pregnancy of the first child was terminated and we describe the autopsy findings. The second child had postnatal growth restriction of prenatal onset, hypotonia, strabismus, sensorineural hearing loss, genitourinary and skeletal involvement, and global developmental delay. He had dysmorphic features that included frontal bossing, upslanting palpebral fissures, small nose with depressed nasal bridge, and pectus excavatum. Our patients provide additional clinical and pathological data and expand the phenotypic manifestations associated with PRMT7 homozygote/compound heterozygote mutations to include brain calcifications and delayed myelination, and congenital orbital tumor.

Tuberous sclerosis complex: a clinical case with multiple ophthalmological manifestations

The tuberous sclerosis complex is a rare disease, with autosomal dominant transmission, with multisystemic involvement including ophthalmologic. Retinal hamartomas and retinal achromic patch are the most frequent ocular findings. Other ophthalmic signs and symptoms are relatively rare in this disease.We describe the case of a young woman with tuberous sclerosis who presented with horizontal binocular diplopia and decreased visual acuity without complaints of nausea, vomiting or headache. She had right abducens nerve palsy, pale oedema of both optic discs and retinal hamartomas. An obstructive hydrocephalus caused by an intraventricular expansive lesion was identified in brain CT.Observation by the ophthalmologist is indicated in all confirmed or suspected cases of tuberous sclerosis to aid in clinical diagnosis, monitoring of retinal hamartomas or identification of poorly symptomatic papilloedema.