A case of mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome type 11 - expanding the genotype and phenotype

Abstract

Mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome type 11 (MTDPS11) is caused by pathogenic variants in MGME1 gene. We report a woman, 40-year-old, who presented slow progressive drop eyelid at 11-year-old with, learning difficulty and frequent falls. Phisical examination revealed: mild scoliosis, elbow hyperextensibility, flat feet, chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia with upper eyelid ptosis, diffuse hypotonia, and weakness of arm abduction and neck flexion. Investigation evidenced mild serum creatine kinase increase and glucose intolerance; second-degree atrioventricular block; mild mixed-type respiratory disorder and atrophy and granular appearance of the retinal pigment epithelium. Brain magnetic resonance showed cerebellar atrophy. Muscle biopsy was compatible with mitochondrial myopathy. Genetic panel revealed a homozygous pathogenic variant in the MGME1 gene, consistent with MTDPS11 (c.862C>T; p.Gln288*). This case of MTDPS11 can contribute to the phenotypic characterization of this ultra-rare mitochondrial disorder, presenting milder respiratory and nutritional involvement than the previously reported cases, with possible additional features.

Keywords: Chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia; MGME1; Mitochondrial diseases; mtDNA depletion syndrome.