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Optic Atrophy with Intellectual Disability

OMIM ID:

autosomal dominant

Optic Atrophy with Intellectual Disability

Alternate Names

Bosch-Boonstra-Schaaf optic atrophy syndrome

Defective Genes

NR2F1

Clinical Characteristics

Ocular Features

Optic atrophy is the primary ocular abnormality but visual deficits are said to originate from cortical impairment.  The optic discs are pale and may be small with excavation.  Strabismus and latent nystagmus are often present. Up slanting palpebral fissures and epicanthal folds have been noted. Visual acuity levels have not been reported.

Systemic Features

Facial dysmorphism of a non-specific pattern can be present as evidenced by protruding ears with helical anomalies, and a small, sometimes elevated nasal bridge. The fingers are small and tapered.  Developmental delay is common.  Obsessive-compulsive behavior and autistic features have been reported in a single individual.  Hypotonia may be present.

Genetics

Inheritance

This is an autosomal dominant disorder resulting from heterozygous mutations in the NR2F1 gene (5q15), a transcription regulator.   Six persons with this condition have so far been reported.  The gene product is a nuclear protein active in transcription regulation during neurodevelopment.

Pedigree

Autosomal dominant

Autosomal dominant disorders require only one mutation for the disease to be expressed.  Since an affected parent has two chromosomes, only one of which has the mutant gene, parents can expect that half (50%) of their children will receive that one and inherit the disease.  It is common for individuals that inherit the mutation, however, to not have evidence of the disease (nonpenetrance).

Image
Sample pedigree of autosomal dominant inheritance

Autosomal dominant inheritance leads to a vertical pattern of transmission

Treatment & Management

Only symptomatic treatment is available.  Low vision aids and special education may be of benefit.

Selected Resources

Publications

Displaying 1 - 1 of 1

NR2F1 Mutations Cause Optic Atrophy with Intellectual Disability

PubMedID: 24462372