A novel SPINK5 donor splice site variant in a child with Netherton syndrome

Abstract

Background: Netherton syndrome (NS) is a genodermatosis caused by loss-of-function mutations in SPINK5, resulting in aberrant LEKTI expression. Method: Next-generation sequencing of SPINK5 (NM_001127698.1) was carried out and functional studies were performed by immunofluorescence microscopy of a lesional skin biopsy using anti-LEKTI antibodies. Results: We describe a novel SPINK5 likely pathogenic donor splice site variant (NM_001127698.1:c.2015+5G>A) in a patient with NS and confirm its functional significance by demonstrating complete loss of LEKTI expression in lesional skin by immunofluorescence analysis. Conclusion: The 2015+5G>A is a novel, likely pathogenic variant in NS. Herein we review and assimilate documented SPINK5 pathogenic variants and discuss possible genotype–phenotype associations in NS.