A Novel SPINK5 Gene Mutation Associated with Netherton Syndrome in an Omani Patient

Netherton syndrome (NS) is an autosomal recessive primary immunodeficiency. It is characterised by substantial skin barrier defects and is often misdiagnosed as severe atopic dermatitis or hyper-immunoglobulin E syndrome. Although more than 80 NS-associated pathogenic mutations in the serine peptidase inhibitor kazal type 5 (SPINK5) gene have been reported worldwide, only one has been reported in the Arab population to date. We report the case of a novel association between the c.1887+1G>A mutation in the SPINK5 gene and NS in an Omani-Arab patient born in 2014 who was managed at a paediatric immunology clinic in Muscat, Oman. Accurate genetic diagnosis facilitated tailored clinical management of the index patient and enabled the provision of genetic counselling and offering of future reproductive options to the individuals related to the index patient.

Infliximab therapy in an infant with Netherton syndrome

We present a patient with Netherton syndrome and severe skin manifestations treated with infliximab. By 6 months of age, the child had intractable pruritus, scaling, dry skin, and generalized eczematous lesions resistant to conventional therapies for atopic dermatitis. Clinical improvement was observed following the third infusion of infliximab, and by 12 months of age, the skin lesions completely resolved. Infliximab is a promising option for the management of skin inflammation in Netherton syndrome, even in infants.

Clinico-epidemiological Study of Congenital Ichthyosis in a Tertiary Care Center of Eastern India

Background

Congenital ichthyoses comprises various specific genetic diseases and can range from mild to very severe presentation. Furthermore, these may be associated with various syndromes. There is scanty data regarding the demographic profile and clinical features of patients with congenital ichthyosis in India.

Aims and Objectives

The aim is to evaluate the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of various types of congenital ichthyoses.

Materials and Methods

The study was conducted for 1 year from April 2013 to March 2014. Patients were evaluated for epidemiological profile and clinical features.

Results

During the study of 1 year, 106 patients of congenital ichthyoses were identified. The most common of the various ichthyoses was ichthyosis vulgaris, followed by lamellar ichthyosis, X-linked recessive ichthyosis. One case of Netherton syndrome and one of ichthyosis hystrix were also identified.

Conclusion

Various types of congenital ichthyoses present with different clinical features which range from mild to severe. These present with significant psychological stress to both patients and their families. Furthermore, all these diseases have significant implications of transmission to their offspring.