ROP mimicker in a big premature baby: Adams-Oliver syndrome with DOCK6 mutation: a case report and review of the literature.

AIM: To report a case of Adams-Oliver Syndrome (AOS) presenting with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)-like retinal findings and a novel homozygous mutation in the DOCK6 gene.

METHODS

Single patient case report.

RESULTS

A 6-week-old female infant with a premature birth at 35 weeks and birth weight of 1580 grams was referred to our clinic for presumed ROP stage 5 in the right eye and stage 4 in the left eye. Fluorescein angiography revealed peripheral avascular retina, abnormal vascular sprouts, and tractional retinal folds. Lens-sparing vitrectomy was performed, with subsequent surgical stabilization and ambulatory vision achieved during 60-month follow-up period. Genetic testing identified a novel homozygous mutation in the DOCK6 gene (c.4198_4199insATGG). The patient had mild systemic findings, including brachydactyly and nail hypoplasia, without significant dermatological, cerebral or cardiovascular anomalies. Family screening did not reveal any pathological findings, even on wide-field FA.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights the importance of genetic testing in atypical retinal vasculopathies resembling ROP. The findings expand the genotypic spectrum of DOCK6-related AOS and emphasize the need for multidisciplinary evaluation in similar presentations to guide accurate diagnosis and management.