Fitzsimmons syndrome: spastic paraplegia, brachydactyly and cognitive impairment

Am J Med Genet A. 2009 Oct;149A(10):2254-7. doi: 10.1002/ajmg.a.33003.

Abstract

Fitzsimmons syndrome is an infrequently described entity comprising slowly progressive spastic paraplegia, brachydactyly, and cone-shaped epiphyses, dysarthria, and low-normal intelligence. Five patients with this syndrome have been reported. The cause remains unknown. Here we describe a 16-year-old boy with Fitzsimmons syndrome. He was noted to toe-walk at age 18 months and spasticity progressed slowly into a spastic gait with contractures. He has mild dysarthria and hypernasal speech. Brachydactyly is notable but cannot be classified into one of the recognized types. A cone-shaped epiphysis was apparent on the only available childhood radiograph. He has moderate cognitive handicap and pervasive developmental delay. A detailed comparison of this patient with the earlier described cases is presented to further delineate the condition and increase awareness of this syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Multiple / diagnosis
  • Adolescent
  • Cognition Disorders / complications*
  • Foot Deformities, Congenital / complications*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Paraplegia / complications*
  • Syndrome