Different parental origins of supernumerary X chromosomes in brothers with Klinefelter syndrome: A case report

Abstract

RATIONALE: Recurrence of Klinefelter syndrome (KS) in non-twin brothers is very rare. This study examined the inheritance pattern of supernumerary X chromosomes in non-twin brothers. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 16-year-old man presented with small-sized testicles. During his diagnostic work-up, his brother, in his late 20's, also complained of small testes and erectile dysfunction. DIAGNOSIS: Chromosome analysis in peripheral blood revealed non-mosaic 47,XXY karyotype in both brothers. Their mother showed a normal 46,XX karyotype. INTERVENTIONS: To examine the inheritance pattern of supernumerary X chromosomes, quantitative-fluorescence PCR was performed with small tandem repeat markers. It revealed that their supernumerary X chromosomes were inherited from different parents. OUTCOMES: After the diagnosis of KS, 2 brothers started to receive testosterone treatment. CONCLUSION: This case report is the first to report differences in the origins of supernumerary X chromosomes in brothers with KS and furthers the current understanding of the cytogenetic mechanisms in KS.