A variant in the CASR gene (c.368T>C) causing hypocalcemia refractory to standard medical therapy

Abstract

Summary

Hypoparathyroidism is characterized by low or inappropriately normal parathormone production, hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia. Autosomal dominant hypocalcemia (ADH) type 1 is one of the genetic etiologies of hypoparathyroidism caused by heterozygous activating mutations in the calcium-sensing receptor ( CASR) gene. Current treatments for ADH type 1 include supplementation with calcium and active vitamin D. We report a case of hypoparathyroidism in an adolescent affected by syncope without prodrome. The genetic testing revealed a variant in the CASR gene. Due to standard therapy ineffectiveness, the patient was treated with recombinant human parathyroid hormone (1–34), magnesium aspartate and calcitriol. He remained asymptomatic and without neurological sequelae until adulthood. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to achieve clinical stability.

Learning points

• Autosomal dominant hypocalcemia (ADH) type 1 is one of the genetic etiologies of hypoparathyroidism caused by heterozygous activating mutations in the calcium-sensing receptor ( CASR) gene.

• The variant c.368T>C (p.Leu123Ser) in heterozygosity in the CASR gene is likely pathogenic and suggests the diagnosis of ADH type 1.

• Teriparatide (recombinant human parathyroid hormone 1–34) may be a valid treatment option to achieve clinical stability for those individuals whose condition is poorly controlled by current standard therapy.