Achondrogenesis

Diagnosis of Prenatal-Onset Achondrogenesis Type II by a Multidisciplinary Assessment: A Retrospective Study of 2 Cases

Aim

Achondrogenesis type II is a rare, lethal osteochondrodysplasia with considerable phenotypic heterogeneity. We describe our experience in diagnosing prenatal-onset achondrogenesis type II by a multidisciplinary assessment.

Methods

Two cases of fetal achondrogenesis type II were analyzed retrospectively using prenatal ultrasound evaluation, postnatal radiographic diagnosis, and molecular genetic testing of COL2A1.

Results

A causative mutation in the COL2A1 gene was found in both patients. Combined with postnatal radiographic examination, the final diagnosis of achondrogenesis type II was made.

Conclusion

Our findings emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary assessment for the definitive diagnosis of achondrogenesis type II, which is paramount for proper genetic counseling.

Visceral manifestations of hypochondrogenesis

Autopsy of a stillborn neonate with hypochondrogenesis revealed severe cardiac abnormalities and extensive diverticulosis of the proximal region of the small intestine. Visceral ramifications are unusual in hypochondrogenesis; they may reflect heterogeneity of the intramolecular defect in the COL2A1 gene that codes for the achondrogenesis type II-hypochondrogenesis spectrum of disorders.