The prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling of chromosomal micro-duplication on 10q24.3 in a fetus: A case report and a brief review of the literature

Variable clinical presentation of split hand/foot malformation syndrome in a family with microduplication of 10q24.32: a case report

SHFM (Split Hand/Foot Malformation) is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by the presence of clefts in the hands and feet, along with syndactyly of the digits. In this article, we describe a family in which two members exhibit characteristic developmental abnormalities associated with SHFM, presenting with variable clinical features. Using whole-genome sequencing, we identified a microduplication of a chromosomal segment on locus 10q24.32, specifically spanning positions 102934495 to 103496555, encompassing genes BTRC, POLL, FBXW4 and LBX1 in the proband. Genomic duplications, including these genes, were previously described in patients diagnosed with the third type of SHFM. We validated the presence of this structural rearrangement in 7 family members, including the proband and the proband's father. Remarkably, further investigation demonstrated that the detected duplication exhibits a mosaic state in the phenotypically normal paternal grandmother of the proband, thereby providing a plausible explanation for the absence of a pathological phenotype in her.

The Special Features of Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Counseling in Arab Countries

Genetic counseling services have only recently been introduced in most Arab countries, and their utilization is increasing. Prenatal genetic counseling is essential, particularly in the Arab context, which is characterized by high rates of consanguinity. Nevertheless, little is known about the decisions faced by parents and the factors underlying the complex decision making that must occur when accessing these services in Arab countries. Herein, we performed a narrative review to discuss the reported experiences of parents accessing genetic counseling in the prenatal setting in the 22 Arab countries. We also highlight the different types of decisions encountered and the factors influencing them. We report that: (i) utilization of genetic counseling services varies across different Arab countries; (ii) many factors affect decision making and service utilization, especially religion; and (iii) parents are faced with an array of decisions in the prenatal setting, partly driven by increased utilization of prenatal diagnosis and preimplantation genetic testing in some countries. Our work is the first to highlight the different factors and decisions influencing genetic counseling in Arab countries. Understanding these factors is essential for improving genetic counseling services in the region and helping counselors facilitate informed decision making.