Cystic fibrosis in Chilean patients: Analysis of 36 common CFTR gene mutations.

BACKGROUND

CFTR gene mutations have worldwide differences in prevalence and data on Chilean patients is scarce.

METHODS

We studied 36 of the most common CFTR mutations in Chilean patients from the CF National Program [Programa Nacional de Fibrosis Quística (PNFQ)] of the Ministry of Health of Chile.

RESULTS

Two hundred and eighty-nine patients were studied. Fourteen different mutations were identified with an overall allele detection rate of 42.0%. Mutations with frequencies greater than 1% were p.F508del (30.3% of alleles), p.R334W (3.3%), p.G542X (2.4%), c.3849+10Kb C>T (1.7%), and p.R553X (1.2%). A north to south geographical gradient was observed in the overall rate of detection.

CONCLUSIONS

Southern European CFTR mutations predominate in the Chilean population, but a high percentage of alleles remain unknown. Geographical heterogeneity could be explained in part by admixture. Complementary analyses are necessary to allow for effective genetic counselling and improve cost-effectiveness of screening and diagnostic tests.