Joubert syndrome (JS) is a rare autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental disorder with characteristic clinical presentation of hyperpnea-apnea spells, hypotonia, dysmorphic facies, and nystagmus and imaging features of molar tooth sign and cerebellar vermian hypoplasia-dysplasia. Early diagnosis is needed for timely management and favorable outcome. We present a case of neonatal JS with renal involvement presenting with respiratory distress and highlight the characteristic clinical and imaging findings. On examination, the baby had low set ears, a large protruding tongue, hypertelorism, and a depressed nasal bridge. Ultrasonography (USG) abdomen showed echogenic kidneys with cortical and medullary cysts. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) brain showed classical molar tooth sign, vermian hypoplasia-dysplasia, and thinning of the corpus callosum.
Keywords: joubert syndrome; molar tooth sign; newborn; renal involvement; respiratory distress.
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