Dyskeratosis congenita: a combined immunodeficiency with broad clinical spectrum–a single‐center pediatric experience
S Jyonouchi, L Forbes, E Ruchelli… - Pediatric Allergy and …, 2011 - Wiley Online Library
S Jyonouchi, L Forbes, E Ruchelli, KE Sullivan
Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, 2011•Wiley Online LibraryTo cite this article: Jyonouchi S, Forbes L, Ruchelli E, Sullivan KE. Dyskeratosis congenita: a
combined immunodeficiency with broad clinical spectrum–a single‐center pediatric
experience. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22: 313–319. Abstract Background: Dyskeratosis
Congenita (DKC) is a syndrome characterized by immunodeficiency, bone marrow failure,
somatic abnormalities, and cancer predisposition resulting from defective telomere
maintenance. The immunologic features of DKC remain under diagnosed and under treated …
combined immunodeficiency with broad clinical spectrum–a single‐center pediatric
experience. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22: 313–319. Abstract Background: Dyskeratosis
Congenita (DKC) is a syndrome characterized by immunodeficiency, bone marrow failure,
somatic abnormalities, and cancer predisposition resulting from defective telomere
maintenance. The immunologic features of DKC remain under diagnosed and under treated …
To cite this article: Jyonouchi S, Forbes L, Ruchelli E, Sullivan KE. Dyskeratosis congenita: a combined immunodeficiency with broad clinical spectrum – a single‐center pediatric experience. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22: 313–319.
Abstract
Background: Dyskeratosis Congenita (DKC) is a syndrome characterized by immunodeficiency, bone marrow failure, somatic abnormalities, and cancer predisposition resulting from defective telomere maintenance. The immunologic features of DKC remain under diagnosed and under treated despite the fact that immunodeficiency is a major cause of premature mortality in DKC.
Methods: This study undertook a retrospective review of 7 DKC patients diagnosed at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. In parallel, we reviewed previously reported immunologic findings in DKC patients.
Results: Immunologic abnormalities (lymphopenia, low B‐cell numbers, hypogammaglobulinemia, and decreased T‐cell function) were the most frequent laboratory findings at initial presentation, preceding the development of significant anemia or thrombocytopenia. Recurrent sinopulmonary or opportunistic infections were present in 6/7 patients. Infant‐onset patients had more severe immunologic and somatic features (particularly severe enteropathy).
Conclusion: In DKC, development of immunologic abnormalities can precede bone marrow failure, highlighting the importance of proper immunodeficiency management to minimize morbidity and premature mortality in this disease.
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