Background
Loss-of-function variants in the calcium-sensing receptor (
CASR
) gene are known to be involved in a clinical spectrum ranging from asymptomatic familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH) to neonatal severe hyperparathyroidism (NSHPT). Homozygous or compound heterozygous variants are usually responsible for severe neonatal forms, whereas heterozygous variants cause benign forms. One recurrent pathogenic variant, p.Arg185Gln, has been reported in both forms, in a heterozygous state. This variant can be a
de novo
occurrence or can be inherited from a father with FHH.
NSHPT leads to global hypotonia, failure to thrive, typical X-ray anomalies (diffuse demineralization, fractures, metaphyseal irregularities), and acute respiratory distress which can be fatal. Phosphocalcic markers show severe hypercalcemia, abnormal urinary calcium resorption, and hyperparathyroidism as major signs.
Classical treatment involves calcium restriction, hyperhydration, and bisphosphonates. Unfortunately, the disease often leads to parathyroidectomy. Recently, calcimimetics have been used with variable efficacy. Efficacy in NSHPT seems to be particularly dependent on
CASR
genotype.
Case presentation
We describe the antenatal presentation of a male with short ribs, initially suspected having skeletal ciliopathy. At birth, he presented with NSHPT linked to the pathogenic heterozygous
CASR
variant, Arg185Gln, inherited from his father who had FHH. Postnatal therapy with cinacalcet was successful.
Discussion
An exhaustive literature review permits a comparison with all reported cases of Arg185Gln and to hypothesize that cinacalcet efficacy depends on
CASR
genotype. This confirms the importance of pedigree and parental history in antenatal short rib presentation and questions the feasibility of phosphocalcic exploration during pregnancy or prenatal
CASR
gene sequencing in the presence of specific clinical signs. It could in fact enable early calcimimetic treatment which might be effective in the
CASR
variant Arg185Gln.
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