Stimulatory guanine nucleotide binding protein subunit 1 mutation in two siblings with pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1a and mother with pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism

Abstract

Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) type 1a is characterized by multihormone resistance and a constellation of somatic features referred to as Albright hereditary osteodystrophy. Several mutations in the gene coding for the Gsα subunit (GNAS1) have been described. Clinical symptoms are heterogeneous and initially laboratory parameters may be normal. We identified a 4 base pair deletion within GNAS1 in two affected siblings with PHP type 1a and their mother with presumed pseudo PHP. The female proband was diagnosed after an episode of apnoea and seizures. The younger brother was asymptomatic during infancy and had normal plasma parameters. PHP was diagnosed at the age of 4.4 years. Regular check-ups of siblings in families with index cases are therefore important. Molecular genetic analyses or biochemical screening for stimulatory guanine nucleotide binding protein defects should be performed.

Conclusion Different symptoms may be seen in patients with the same mutation causing pseudohypoparathyroidism or pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism. Therefore, clinical and biochemical investigations should be performed in all family members with an index patient.