Expanding the spectrum of KCNJ6-related disorders: Milder phenotype with pathological startle responses

Abstract

Keppen-Lubinsky syndrome is caused by pathogenic variants in KCNJ6, which encodes the inwardly rectifying channel subfamily J6. The four confirmed cases reported to date were characterized by severe intellectual disability, global developmental delay, feeding difficulties, and dysmorphic features. All but one of the cases also had a severe form of lipodystrophy, resulting in tightly adherent facial skin and appearance of premature aging. Here, we describe a 36-year-old female with a de novo pathogenic variant in KCNJ6 (NM_002240.5: c.460G>T; p.(Gly154Cys)) presenting with mild intellectual disability, subtle dysmorphic features, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and an exaggerated startle response. This case indicates that KCNJ6-related disorders should be considered in patients with less pronounced dysmorphic features and milder cognitive impairment, as well as in patients with startle disorders.

Keywords: Girk2; KCNJ6; KCNJ6-related disorders; Keppen-Lubinsky syndrome; case report; startle response.