Neu–Laxova syndrome

Neu-Laxova syndrome-01

Neu–Laxova syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized by severe fetal abnormalities. It was first described by Richard Neu and Renata Laxova in the early 1970s. The syndrome is often lethal, with most affected infants being stillborn or dying shortly after birth.

Clinical Features

Neu–Laxova syndrome presents with a range of severe congenital anomalies, including:

• Intrauterine growth restriction
• Microcephaly
• Severe intellectual disability
• Ichthyosis (a condition causing dry, scaly skin)
• Edema (swelling due to fluid retention)
• Craniofacial abnormalities such as proptosis (bulging eyes), micrognathia (small jaw), and cleft palate
• Limb abnormalities including syndactyly (webbed fingers or toes) and arthrogryposis (joint contractures)

Genetics

Neu–Laxova syndrome is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. This means that both parents must carry one copy of the mutated gene, but typically do not show symptoms themselves. The specific genetic mutations responsible for Neu–Laxova syndrome have been identified in the PHGDH gene, which is involved in the biosynthesis of the amino acid serine.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Neu–Laxova syndrome is primarily based on clinical features observed through prenatal ultrasound and postnatal examination. Genetic testing can confirm the diagnosis by identifying mutations in the PHGDH gene.

Management

There is no cure for Neu–Laxova syndrome, and management is primarily supportive. Prenatal diagnosis allows for early detection, and parents may be offered genetic counseling to understand the risks for future pregnancies.

Epidemiology

Neu–Laxova syndrome is extremely rare, with only a few dozen cases reported in the medical literature. The exact incidence is unknown due to the rarity of the condition.

See Also

• Genetic disorder
• Autosomal recessive inheritance
• Congenital anomaly
• Prenatal diagnosis

Related Pages

• Richard Neu
• Renata Laxova
• PHGDH
• Ichthyosis
• Microcephaly
• Craniofacial abnormalities
• Genetic counseling