Expanding the phenotypical spectrum of KLHL40 related nemaline myopathy

Neuromuscular disorders Jan16Nemaline myopathies are clinically and genetically heterogeneous muscle diseases characterized by the presence of nemaline bodies (rods) in muscle fibers. Mutations in the KLHL40 (kelch-like family member 40) gene (NEM 8) are common cause of severe/lethal nemaline myopathy. This report describes an 8-year-old girl born to consanguineous Moroccan parents, who presented with hypotonia and poor sucking at birth, delayed motor development, and further mild difficulties in walking and fatigability. A muscle biopsy revealed the presence of nemaline bodies. KLHL40 gene Sanger sequencing disclosed a never before reported pathogenic homozygous mutation which resulted in absent KLHL40 protein expression in the muscle. This further expands the phenotypical spectrum of KLHL40 related nemaline myopathy.

Seferian AM, Malfatti E, Bosson C, et al. Mild clinical presentation in KLHL40-related nemaline myopathy (NEM 8). Neuromuscul Disord. 2016 Jul 29. pii: S0960-8966(16)30172-9.