Detection of a complete autoimmune regulator gene deletion and two additional novel mutations in a cohort of patients with atypical phenotypic variants of autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 1.

OBJECTIVE

Autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 1 (APS-1) is characterised by multiple autoimmune diseases. Detection of autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene mutations facilitates timely and precise diagnosis.

DESIGN

AIRE mutation detection was performed in a cohort of 11 patients. Two did not meet clinical APS-1 criteria and several started with atypical presentation.

METHODS

Sequencing and TaqMan genotyping were used to identify AIRE mutations. Complete AIRE deletion was confirmed and framed by real-time PCR, long-range amplification and analysis of the microsatellite markers.

RESULTS

Seven different mutations were detected, three were novel: c.892G>A in exon 8, silent mutation c.462A>T in exon 3 most likely affecting splicing, and a complete deletion of a single AIRE allele ((?_68)_(1567-14_?)del). Novel (chronic otitis) and rare (systemic juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune bronchiolitis, epilepsy) clinical presentations were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

AIRE mutation detection was valuable in the diagnostics of APS-1 in patients with atypical presentation. Chronic otitis media possibly broadened the cluster of APS-1 manifestations.