Schwartz–Jampel syndrome
Schwartz–Jampel syndrome (SJS) is a rare genetic disease caused by a mutation in the perlecan gene (HSPG2)[1] which causes osteochondrodysplasia associated with myotonia.[2] Most people with Schwartz–Jampel syndrome have a nearly normal life expectancy.[3]
Cause[edit | edit source]
Schwartz–Jampel syndrome is caused by mutations in the HSPG2 gene, which makes the protein perlecan, which is found in muscle and cartilage.[3] Relationships between the disease and perlecan deficiency have been studied.[4] In Schwartz–Jampel syndrome, it is suspected that abnormal perlecan function leads to a deficiency in acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme involved in breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which incites muscle contraction. If acetylcholine is not broken down, it can lead to prolonged muscle contraction/stiffening of the muscles (myotonia).[3]
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Schwartz–Jampel syndrome is diagnosed on the basis of characteristic facial features, skeletal features and myotonia. Blood tests may show elevated serum creatine kinase or aldolase. X-rays, muscle biopsy or electromyography (EMG) may be useful. Genetic testing for the HSPG2 gene may confirm diagnosis.[3]
Treatment[edit | edit source]
There is no cure for Schwartz–Jampel syndrome. Treatment is aimed at reducing muscle stiffness and cramping and may include massage, muscle warming and gradual strengthening exercises. Muscle relaxants or anti-seizure medications, especially carbamazepine, may be used. Eye symptoms such as blepharospasm might be relieved by Botox. Otherwise, a variety of surgical procedures have been found to be effective. Malignant hyperthermia, a potential complication of surgery, is a greater risk for people Schwartz–Jampel syndrome and an important consideration when considering surgery.[3]
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
Most people with Schwartz–Jampel syndrome have a nearly normal life expectancy.[3]
History[edit | edit source]
The syndrome was first described in 1962 by American ophthalmologist Oscar Schwartz and American neuro-ophthalmologist Robert Steven Jampel.[5][6]
Society[edit | edit source]
In March 2013, there was media coverage on a British 7-year-old boy with chronically tense muscles due to SJS and his three-legged pet dog. They became first-place winners of the 2013 Crufts Kennel Club's annual Friends for Life competition, which "celebrates dogs that have truly earned the title of man’s best friend through bravery, support or companionship".[7][8][9] The dog was also awarded The Braveheart Honour in the ceremony of The British Animal Honours in April 2013 (Haatchi the dog). The two are featured in the book Haatchi & Little B (2014, Template:Isbn) by Wendy Holden[10] and on Haatchi's Facebook page.[11]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ "Schwartz Jampel syndrome type 1". National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences. Retrieved 20 February 2014.
- ↑
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 "Schwartz Jampel syndrome | Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) – an NCATS Program". rarediseases.info.nih.gov. Retrieved 2018-03-05.
- ↑
- ↑
- ↑
- ↑ Owen and Haatchi win Friends for Life at Crufts 2013, Crufts.org, 10 March 2013
- ↑ Crufts bravery award win for three-legged dog Haatchi, BBC News, 11 March 2013
- ↑ Three-Legged Dog, Haatchi, Wins 'Friends For Life' Crufts Award For 7-Year-Old Owner, Owen, Huffingtonpost, 10 March 2013
- ↑ "Haatchi & Little B". Wendy Holden. Retrieved March 8, 2019.
- ↑ Haatchi on Facebook
External links[edit | edit source]
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