Prenatal diagnosis of familial 22q11.2 deletion syndrome in a pregnancy with concomitant cardiac and urinary tract abnormalities in the fetus and the mother

ObjectiveWe present prenatal diagnosis of familial 22q11.2 deletion syndrome in a pregnancy with concomitant cardiac and urinary tract abnormalities in the fetus and the mother.Case reportA 28-year-old woman primigravid underwent amniocentesis at 23 weeks of gestation because of fetal ultrasound findings of aortic stenosis, interrupted aortic arch (IAA), left multicystic kidney, right hydronephrosis and ureterocele. Amniocentesis revealed a karyotype of 46,XX. Simultaneous array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analysis on the DNA extracted from uncultured amniocytes revealed the result of arr 22q11.21 (18,894,835-21,505,417) × 1.0 [GRCh37 (hg19)] with a 2.611-Mb 22q11.21 deletion encompassing 41 Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) genes including UFD1L, TBX1, GNB1L, COMT and MED15. aCGH analysis on the DNAs extracted from parental bloods confirmed that the mother carried the same 22q11.21 microdeletion. Level II ultrasound additionally found ventricular septal defect (VSD) and persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC). Examination of the woman showed short stature, malar hypoplasia, hypertelorism, bulbous nasal tip, prominent nasal root, hypoplasia of nasal wings, right renal agenesis, left ureterovesical reflux and VSD with repair, but normal intelligence and normal neuropsychiatric development. The woman decided to continue the pregnancy, and a 2903-g female baby was delivered at 38 weeks of gestation with left multicystic kidney, right hydronephrosis, dysgenesis of corpus callosum, IAA, VSD, PLSVC, patent ductus arteriosus, patent foramen ovale, atrial septal defect, dilated main pulmonary artery and tricuspid regurgitation. The neonate died at the age of one month.ConclusionPrenatal diagnosis of concomitant congenital heart defects and urinary tract abnormalities in the fetus and the parent should raise a suspicion of familial 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.     

Rapid confirmation of trisomy 13 of maternal origin by QF-PCR following postmortem tissue cell culture failure in a pregnancy with trisomy 13 at amniocentesis and fetal postaxial polydactyly and facial cleft

ObjectiveWe present rapid confirmation of trisomy 13 of maternal origin by quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) following postmortem tissue cell culture failure in a pregnancy with trisomy 13 at amniocentesis and fetal postaxial polydactyly and facial cleft.Case ReportA 34-year-old woman underwent amniocentesis at 17 weeks of gestation because of advanced maternal age. Cytogenetic analysis of cultured amniocytes revealed a karyotype of 47,XX,+13. Prenatal ultrasound revealed postaxial polydactyly. The pregnancy was subsequently terminated, and a malformed fetus was delivered with facial cleft and postaxial polydactyly of the hand and foot. Postmortem cytogenetic analysis of the fetal tissue revealed no growth of the cells due to culture failure, but QF-PCR analysis on the DNA extracted from placenta, umbilical cord and parental bloods confirmed trisomy 13 and maternal origin of the extra chromosome 13.ConclusionQF-PCR analysis is useful for rapid perinatal confirmation of trisomy 13 and the parental origin of the extra chromosome 13, especially under the circumstance of tissue cell culture failure, and the acquired information is useful for genetic counseling.     

Wolf–Hirschhorn syndrome: Prenatal diagnosis and molecular cytogenetic characterization of a de novo distal deletion of 4p (4p16.1 → pter) in a fetus with facial cleft and preaxial polydactyly

ObjectiveWe present prenatal diagnosis and molecular cytogenetic characterization of Wolf–Hirschhorn syndrome (WHS) in a fetus with facial cleft and preaxial polydactyly.Materials and methodsA 37-year-old woman underwent amniocentesis at 18 weeks of gestation because of advanced maternal age, and the result showed an aberrant chromosome 4 or 46,XX,add(4) (p15.3). The woman consulted our clinics at 22 weeks of gestation and requested for repeat amniocentesis. Prenatal ultrasound revealed intrauterine growth restriction, facial cleft, vermian hypoplasia of cerebellum, micrognathia and absent stomach. Conventional cytogenetic analysis was performed on cultured amniocytes, parental bloods and cord blood. Array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) were performed on the DNAs extracted from uncultured amniocytes and parental bloods. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis was performed on cultured metaphase amniocytes.ResultsaCGH analysis on uncultured amniocytes revealed arr 4p16.3p16.1 (74,447–8,732,731) × 1.0 [GRCh37 (hg19)] with an 8.66-Mb deletion of 4p16.3-p16.1 encompassing 70 [Online Mendelian Inheritance of in Man (OMIM)] genes including ZNF141, FGFRL1, TACC3, LETM1, NSD2 and NELFA. QF-PCR revealed a paternal origin of the distal 4p deletion. Conventional cytogenetic analysis revealed 46,XX,del(4) (p16.1)dn in the fetus. Metaphase FISH analysis confirmed a 4p16 deletion. The parental karyotypes were normal. The pregnancy was subsequently terminated, and a malformed fetus was delivered with typical WHS facial dysmorphism, bilateral cleft lip and palate, and preaxial polydactyly on the right hand.ConclusionaCGH, QF-PCR and FISH help to delineate the nature of a prenatally defected aberrant chromosome, and the acquired information is useful for genetic counseling.     

Prenatal diagnosis of a familial 1q21.1-q21.2 microdeletion in a fetus with polydactyly of left foot on prenatal ultrasound

Objective

We present prenatal diagnosis of a familial 1q21.1-q21.2 microdeletion in a fetus with polydactyly of left foot on prenatal ultrasound.

Prenatal diagnosis of maternal uniparental disomy 16 associated with mosaic trisomy 16 at amniocentesis,and pericardial effusion and intrauterine growth restriction in the fetus

ObjectiveWe present prenatal diagnosis of maternal uniparental disomy (UPD) 16 associated with mosaic trisomy 16 at amniocentesis, and pericardial effusion and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) in the fetus.Case reportA 38-year-old woman underwent amniocentesis at 17 weeks of gestation because of advanced maternal age, and the result was 47,XX,+16[2]/46,XX[54]. Simultaneous array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analysis on the DNA extracted from uncultured amniocytes revealed 14% mosaicism for trisomy 16 and a paternally inherited 319-kb microdeletion of 15q11.2 encompassing the genes of TUBGCP5, CYFIP1, NIPA2 and NIPA1. Prenatal ultrasound revealed persistent left superior vena cava, pericardial effusion and severe IUGR. Cordocentesis at 23 weeks of gestation revealed a karyotype of 46,XX, but polymorphic DNA marker analysis revealed maternal UPD 16. Repeat amniocentesis was performed at 27 weeks of gestation and revealed a karyotype of 46, XX in 21/21 colonies. Molecular cytogenetic analysis on uncultured amniocytes revealed 22.4% mosaicism (26/116 cells) for trisomy 16 on interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis, and 20% mosaicism for trisomy 16 on aCGH. Polymorphic DNA marker analysis on the DNAs extracted from uncultured amniocytes and parental bloods revealed maternal UPD 16. The pregnancy was subsequently terminated, and a fetus was delivered with facial dysmorphism and severe IUGR. The umbilical cord had a karyotype of 47,XX,+16[28]/46,XX[16]. Polymorphic DNA marker analysis on placenta confirmed a maternal origin of trisomy 16.ConclusionCytogenetic discrepancy between cultured amniocytes and uncultured amniocytes may present in mosaic trisomy 16 at amniocentesis. Prenatal diagnosis of mosaic trisomy 16 should alert the association of maternal UPD 16 which may be associated with congenital heart defects and severe IUGR on prenatal ultrasound.     

Prenatal diagnosis and molecular cytogenetic characterization of a de novo duplication of 2q12.2→q13 encompassing MALL,NPHP1, RGPD6 and BUB1

ObjectiveWe present prenatal diagnosis and molecular cytogenetic characterization of a de novo duplication of 2q12.2→q13 encompassing MALL, NPHP1, RGPD6 and BUB1.Case reportA 36-year-old, primigravid woman underwent amniocentesis at 16 weeks of gestation because of advanced maternal age. Amniocentesis revealed a karyotype of 46,XX,dup(2) (q12.2q13). Simultaneous array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analysis revealed a 6.1-Mb 2q12.2q13 duplication. aCGH analysis of the parental bloods did not find such a duplication. Prenatal ultrasound was unremarkable. After genetic counseling, the parents decided to terminate the pregnancy at 21 weeks of gestation, and a 420-g female fetus was delivered with no gross abnormalities. Postnatal cytogenetic analysis of the umbilical cord confirmed the prenatal diagnosis. The parental karyotypes were normal. aCGH analysis of the umbilical cord revealed the result of arr [GRCh37 (hg19)] 2q12.2q13 (107, 132, 950–113,065,779) × 3.0 with a 2q12.2→q13 duplication encompassing 20 OMIM genes including MALL, NPHP1, RGPD6 and BUB1. Polymorphic DNA marker analysis of quantitative fluorescence polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) on the DNAs extracted from the umbilical cord and parental bloods confirmed a maternal origin of the duplication of 2q12.2→q13.ConclusionAmniocentesis may incidentally detect a de novo chromosomal segmental duplication of maternal origin in the fetus. The genetic information acquired by molecular analyses such as aCGH and QF-PCR are useful for genetic counseling under such a circumstance.     

Prenatal diagnosis and molecular cytogenetic characterization of a pure ring chromosome 21 with a 4.657-Mb 21q22.3 deletion

ObjectiveWe present diagnosis and molecular cytogenetic characterization of a pure ring chromosome [r(21)] with a 4.657-Mb 21q22.3 deletion.Case reportA 44-year-old woman underwent amniocentesis at 18 weeks of gestation because of advanced maternal age. Amniocentesis revealed a karyotype 46,XX,r(21)(p11.2q22.3). Prenatal ultrasound findings were unremarkable. Simultaneous array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analysis on uncultured amniocytes revealed a 4.657-Mb deletion at 21q22.3. The parental karyotypes were normal. The pregnancy was subsequently terminated, and a malformed fetus was delivered with facial dysmorphism and clinodactyly. Postnatal cytogenetic analysis of umbilical cord revealed a karyotype of 46,XX,r(21)(p11.2q22.3). aCGH analysis of umbilical cord revealed the result of arr 21q22.3 (43,427,188–48,084,156) × 1.0 with a 4.657-Mb 21q22.3 deletion encompassing 57 Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) genes including TRPM2, TSPEAR, COL18A1, COL6A1, COL6A2, LSS, PCNT, DIP2A, S100B and PRMT2. Metaphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis of the umbilical cord fibroblasts confirmed a 21q22.3 deletion.ConclusionPrenatal diagnosis of an r(21) should include molecular cytogenetic characterization such as aCGH and FISH to determine the extent of the 21q22.3 deletion.     

High-level mosaic trisomy 14 at amniocentesis in a pregnancy associated with congenital heart defects and intrauterine growth restriction on fetal ultrasound

ObjectiveWe present high-level mosaic trisomy 14 at amniocentesis in a pregnancy associated with congenital heart defects (CHD) and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).Case reportA 34-year-old, primigravid woman underwent amniocentesis at 17 weeks of gestation because of advanced maternal age. This pregnancy was conceived by in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). Amniocentesis revealed a karyotype of 47,XX,+14[9]/46,XX[13], consistent with 40.9% (9/22 colonies) mosaicism for trisomy 14. Simultaneous array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) on the DNA extracted from uncultured amniocytes revealed 61% mosaicism for trisomy 14. Prenatal ultrasound at 22 weeks of gestation showed a malformed fetus with double outlet of right ventricle (DORV), ventricular septal defect (VSD), pulmonary stenosis and severe IUGR with the growth parameters equivalent to 18 weeks of gestation. The pregnancy was terminated at 23 weeks of gestation, and a 278-g female fetus was delivered with facial dysmorphism of hypertelorism, low-set small ears and wide depressed nasal bridge. Quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) analysis on the DNA extracted from parental bloods, cord blood, umbilical cord and placenta confirmed a maternal origin of the extra chromosome 14 and excluded uniparental disomy (UPD) 14. The umbilical cord had a karyotype of 47,XX,+14[7]/ 46,XX[13], and the placenta had a karyotype of 47,XX,+14[4]/46,XX[36].ConclusionsHigh-level mosaic trisomy 14 at amniocentesis can be associated with abnormal ultrasound findings of CHD and IUGR.     

First-trimester prenatal diagnosis of Ellis–van Creveld syndrome

ObjectiveTo present the perinatal findings and first-trimester molecular and transabdominal ultrasound diagnosis of a fetus with Ellis–van Creveld (EvC) syndrome.Case ReportA 35-year-old woman was referred for genetic counseling at 13 weeks of gestation because of a family history of skeletal dysplasia. She had experienced one spontaneous abortion, and delivered one male fetus and one female fetus with EvC syndrome. During this pregnancy, a prenatal transabdominal ultrasound at 13⁺⁴ weeks of gestation revealed a nuchal translucency (NT) thickness of 2.0 mm, an endocardial cushion defect, postaxial polydactyly of bilateral hands, and mesomelic dysplasia of the long bones. Amniocentesis was performed at 13⁺⁵ weeks of gestation. Results of a cytogenetic analysis revealed a karyotype of 46,XX and that of a molecular analysis revealed compound heterozygous mutations of c.1195C>T and c.871-2_894del26 in the EVC2 gene. Prenatal ultrasound at 16 weeks of gestation showed a fetus with short limbs, an endocardial cushion defect, and postaxial polydactyly of bilateral hands. The parents decided to terminate the pregnancy, and a 116-g female fetus was delivered with a narrow thorax, shortening limbs, and postaxial polydactyly of the hands.ConclusionPrenatal diagnosis of an endocardial cushion defect with postaxial polydactyly should include a differential diagnosis of EvC syndrome in addition to short rib–polydactyly syndrome, Bardet–Biedl syndrome, orofaciodigital syndrome, Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome, and hydrolethalus syndrome.     

Detection of recurrent transmission of 17q12 microdeletion by array comparative genomic hybridization in a fetus with prenatally diagnosed hydronephrosis,hydroureter, and multicystic kidney,and variable clinical spectrum in the family

ObjectiveThis study was aimed at detection of recurrent transmission of the 17q12 microdeletion in a fetus with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract.Materials and MethodsA 35-year-old woman was referred to the hospital at 20 weeks' gestation because of hydronephrosis in the fetus. The mother was normal and healthy. Her second child was a girl who had bilateral dysplastic kidneys that required hemodialysis, and died at the age of 5 years. During this pregnancy, the woman underwent amniocentesis at 18 weeks' gestation because of advanced maternal age. Cytogenetic analysis revealed a karyotype of 46,XY. Prenatal ultrasound showed left hydronephrosis with a tortuous ureter, right hydronephrosis, and increased echogenicity of the kidneys. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging showed right dilated renal calyces, left hydronephrosis, hydroureter, and multicystic kidney. The pregnancy was subsequently terminated. Array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and fluorescence in situ hybridization were applied for genetic analysis using umbilical cord, maternal blood, and cultured amniocytes.ResultsaCGH analysis on umbilical cord detected a 1.75-Mb deletion at 17q12 including haploinsufficiency of LHX1 and HNF1B. aCGH analysis on maternal blood detected a 1.54-Mb deletion at 17q12 including haploinsufficiency of LHX1 and HNF1B. Metaphase fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis on cultured amniocytes and maternal blood lymphocytes using 17q12-specific bacterial artificial chromosome probe showed 17q12 microdeletion in the fetus and the mother.ConclusionPrenatal diagnosis of recurrent renal and urinary tract abnormalities in the fetus should include a differential diagnosis of familial 17q12 microdeletion.     

Prenatal diagnosis of a familial Y long-arm and chromosome 15 short-arm translocation inherited from a mother carrier

ObjectiveWe present prenatal diagnosis of a familial Y long-arm and chromosome 15 short-arm translocation inherited from a mother carrier.Case ReportA 34-year-old primigravid woman underwent amniocentesis at 20 weeks of gestation because of advanced maternal age. Amniocentesis revealed a derived chromosome 15 or 15p+ with an additional material on the short arm of chromosome 15. Cytogenetic analysis of the parents revealed that the phenotypically normal mother carried the same 15p+ variant, and the father had a karyotype of 46,XY. Array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analysis on the DNA extracted from cultured amniocytes revealed no genomic imbalance. Polymorphic DNA marker analysis using the DNAs extracted from cultured amniocytes and parental bloods excluded uniparental disomy (UPD) 15. C-banded preparations and metaphase fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis using a Yq12-specific probe showed a positive stain on the 15p+, indicating the origin of Yq on the short arm of the derivative chromosome 15. The karyotype of amniocentesis was 46,XX,der(15)t(Y;15)(q12;p13)mat. The mother had a karyotype of 46,XX,der(15) t(Y;15)(q12;p13). At 39 weeks of gestation, a 3006-g healthy female baby was delivered with no phenotypic abnormality. During follow-up at age six months, she manifested normal physical and psychomotor development.ConclusionPrenatal diagnosis of a 15p+ variant should include a differential diagnosis of genomic imbalance and UPD 15, and aCGH and polymorphic DNA marker analyses are useful under such a circumstance.     

Prenatal diagnosis and molecular cytogenetic characterization of a chromosome 15q24 microdeletion

ObjectiveWe present prenatal diagnosis, molecular cytogenetic characterization and genetic counseling of a chromosome 15q24 microdeletion of paternal origin.Case reportA 34-year-old primigravid woman underwent amniocentesis at 17 weeks of gestation because of advanced maternal age. Amniocentesis revealed a karyotype of 46,XY. Simultaneous array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analysis on amniotic fluid revealed a de novo 2.571-Mb microdeletion of 15q24.1-q24.2. Prenatal ultrasound findings were unremarkable except persistent left superior vena cava and enlarged coronary sinus. The woman requested repeat amniocentesis at 22 weeks of gestation, and aCGH analysis confirmed the result of arr 15q24.1q24.2 (72,963,970–75,535,330) × 1.0 [GRCh37 (hg19)] and a 15q24 microdeletion encompassing the genes of STRA6, CYP11A1, SEMA7A, ARID3B, CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CSK and CPLX3. The parents did not have such a deletion, and polymorphic DNA marker analysis confirmed a paternal origin of the de novo deletion. Metaphase fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis confirmed a 15q24 deletion. The parents elected to terminate the pregnancy, and a malformed fetus was delivered with characteristic facial dysmorphism.ConclusionSimultaneous aCGH analysis of uncultured amniocytes at amniocentesis may help to detect rare de novo microdeletion disorders.     

Prenatal diagnosis of mosaic trisomy 2 associated with abnormal maternal serum screening,oligohydramnios, intrauterine growth restriction,ventricular septal defect,preaxial polydactyly,and facial dysmorphism

ObjectiveTo present prenatal diagnosis of mosaic trisomy 2.Materials and MethodsA 29-year-old woman underwent amniocentesis at 17 weeks of gestation because of abnormal maternal serum screening, and the cytogenetic result was 47,XY,+2[8]/46,XY[22]. She underwent repeated amniocentesis at 19 weeks of gestation. Interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), and quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) were performed on uncultured amniocytes. Ultrasound at 22 weeks of gestation revealed severe oligohydramnios, intrauterine growth restriction, and ventricular septal defect. The pregnancy was terminated at 22 weeks of gestation. Cytogenetic analysis was performed on parental blood, cultured amniocytes, cord blood, skin, liver, lung, umbilical cord, amnion, and placenta. aCGH analysis was performed on cord blood, skin, and liver.ResultsIn the samples of uncultured amniocytes, interphase FISH detected 11.1% (13/117) mosaicism for trisomy 2, aCGH analysis showed the result of arr [hg19] 2p25.3q37.3 (0–242,936,883)×2.46, and QF-PCR excluded uniparental disomy 2. QF-PCR on placenta revealed trisomy 2 derived from maternal meiosis I non-disjunction. Cytogenetic analysis revealed the following results: cultured amniocytes: 46,XY[21 colonies]; cord blood: 46,XY[40 cells]; skin: 46,XY[40 cells]; lung: 46,XY[40 cells]; liver: 47,XY,+2[4 cells]/46,XY[36 cells]; umbilical cord: 47,XY,+2[4 cells]/46,XY[36 cells]; amniotic membrane: 47,XY,+2[20 cells]/46,XY[20 cells]; and placenta: 47,XY,+2[40 cells]. The fetus postnatally manifested facial dysmorphism and preaxial polydactyly of the hand.ConclusionInterphase FISH and aCGH analyses on uncultured amniocytes are useful for rapid confirmation of low-level mosaic trisomy 2 at amniocentesis.     

Rapid diagnosis of trisomy 13 of maternal origin by quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction analysis in a pregnancy with fetal holoprosencephaly,premaxillary agenesis,postaxial polydactyly of left hand and overriding aorta

ObjectiveWe present rapid diagnosis of trisomy 13 of maternal origin by quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) in a pregnancy with multiple fetal abnormalities.Case reportA 35-year-old, primigravid woman was referred for amniocentesis at 24 weeks of gestation because of multiple congenital anomalies in the fetus. Prenatal ultrasound at 23 weeks of gestation revealed holoprosencephaly, premaxillary agenesis, postaxial polydactyly of the left hand and overriding aorta. Amniocentesis was performed subsequently, and QF-PCR analysis using the polymorphic DNA markers of D13S789 (13q22.3), D13S790 (13q31.1) and D13S767 (13q31.3) on the DNA extracted from uncultured amniocytes and parental bloods showed trisomy 13 of maternal origin. Conventional cytogenetic analysis on the cultured amniocytes confirmed trisomy 13. The pregnancy was subsequently terminated, and a malformed fetus was delivered with multiple anomalies consistent with the prenatal diagnosis.ConclusionQF-PCR analysis is useful for rapid confirmation of trisomy 13 and the parental origin when prenatal ultrasound findings are suspicious of fetal trisomy 13.     

Pure partial monosomy 3p (3p25.3 → pter): Prenatal diagnosis and array comparative genomic hybridization characterization

ObjectiveThe purpose of this case report is to present prenatal diagnosis and molecular cytogenetic characterization of pure partial monosomy 3p (3p25.3 → pter) by array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) on uncultured amniocytes.Case ReportA 35-year-old, gravida 2, para 0, woman underwent amniocentesis at 19 weeks of gestation because of advanced maternal age. Her husband was 37 years of age. She had experienced one intrauterine fetal death. Amniocentesis during this pregnancy revealed a distal deletion of chromosome 3p. The parental karyotypes were normal. Prenatal ultrasonography findings were unremarkable. At 22 weeks of gestation, she underwent repeated amniocentesis, and aCGH investigation using CytoChip Oligo Array on uncultured amniocytes revealed a 9.29-Mb deletion of 3p26.3p25.3 [arr 3p26.3p25.3 (64,096–9,357,258 bp) ×1] encompassing the genes of CHL1, CNTN4, CRBN, LRRN1, ITPR1, and SRGAP3, but not involving the markers D3S1263 and D3S3594. Polymorphic DNA marker analysis on uncultured amniocytes showed a paternal origin of the deletion. Cytogenetic analysis of cultured amniocytes revealed a karyotype of 46,XX,del(3)(p25.3). At 24 weeks of gestation, prenatal ultrasonography findings of the brain, heart, and other internal organs were unremarkable. The pregnancy was subsequently terminated, and an 886-g female fetus was delivered with brachycephaly, hypertelorism, a short and thick nose, micrognathia and low-set ears.ConclusionIn this case, aCGH has characterized a 3p deleted region with haploinsufficiency of the neurodevelopmental genes associated with cognitive deficit and mental retardation but without involvement of the congenital heart disease susceptibility locus, and QF-PCR has determined a paternal origin of the deletion. aCGH and QF-PCR help to delineate the genomic imbalance in prenatally detected de novo chromosome aberration, and the information acquired is useful for genetic counseling.     

Rapid positive confirmation of mosaicism for a small supernumerary marker chromosome as r(8) by interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization,quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction,and array comparative genomic hybridization on uncultured amniocytes in a pregnancy with fetal pyelectasis

ObjectiveThis study aimed at presenting prenatal diagnosis and molecular cytogenetic characterization of a small supernumerary marker chromosome (sSMC) derived from chromosome 8 by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR), and array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) on uncultured amniocytes.Materials, Methods, and ResultsA 32-year-old woman underwent amniocentesis at 19 weeks of gestation because of fetal pyelectasis. Amniocentesis revealed a de novo ring-shaped sSMC in two of 21 colonies of cultured amniocytes. Repeated amniocentesis at 22 weeks of gestation revealed a karyotype of 47,XY,+mar[8]/46,XY[32] in cultured amniocytes. Spectral karyotyping and FISH confirmed that the sSMC was derived from chromosome 8. She underwent a third amniocentesis at 26 weeks of gestation. Oligonucleotide-based aCGH analysis on uncultured amniocytes demonstrated a 43 Mb genomic gain in chromosome 8 encompassing 8p22→q12.1. Polymorphic DNA marker analysis of the uncultured amniocytes revealed a maternal origin of the sSMC and excluded uniparental disomy 8. Interphase FISH analysis showed three D8Z2 signals in 8/40 (20%) of uncultured amniocytes. The cultured amniocytes had a karyotype of 47,XY,+r(8)(p22q12.1)[3]/46,XY[37]. The pregnancy was carried to term, and an apparently normal baby, weighing 3300 g, was delivered with mild hydronephrosis but no other phenotypic abnormalities. The cord blood was found to have a karyotype of 47,XY,+r(8)(p22q12.1)[2]/46,XY[38].ConclusionPrenatal diagnosis of fetal pyelectasis should alert obstetricians of chromosome aberration. Interphase FISH, QF-PCR, and aCGH analyses on uncultured amniocytes are helpful in rapid positive confirmation of an sSMC detected at amniocentesis.     

Mosaic isochromosome 20q at amniocentesis: Prenatal diagnosis,genetic counseling and literature review

ObjectiveWe present prenatal diagnosis of mosaic isochromosome 20q [i(20q)] at amniocentesis, and we review the literature.Case reportA 36-year-old woman underwent amniocentesis at 17 weeks of gestation because of advanced maternal age. Amniocentesis revealed a karyotype of 46,XY,i(20)(q10)[27]/46,XY[29]. Prenatal ultrasound findings were unremarkable. The parental karyotypes were normal. Repeat amniocentesis was performed at 20 weeks of gestation. During repeat amniocentesis, array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) assay were performed on uncultured amniocytes, and conventional cytogenetic analysis, interphase FISH and aCGH were performed on cultured amniocytes. In the repeat amniocentesis, the cultured amniocytes revealed a karyotype of 46,XY. Interphase FISH analysis showed the i(20q) signal in 5.2% (5/96) of the uncultured amniocytes compared with 2% in the control, and in 0.98% (1/102) of the cultured amniocytes compared with 2% in the control. aCGH detected no genomic imbalance in both uncultured and cultured amniocytes. QF-PCR analysis excluded uniparental disomy 20. At 38 weeks of gestation, a healthy 2870-g male baby was delivered with no phenotypic abnormality. The postnatal blood karyotype was 46,XY. FISH analysis on urinary cells showed 2.1% (2/95 cells) mosaicism compared with 1.9% (2/105 cells) in the control.ConclusionMosaic i(20q) at amniocentesis is a benign condition associated with a favorable outcome in most cases and can be a cell culture artifact confined to cultured amniocytes. Molecular cytogenetic analysis using uncultured amniocytes is useful for rapid confirmation. Prenatal diagnosis of very high percentage of mosaicism for i(20q) at amniocentesis should alert the presence of fetal structural abnormalities. Prenatal diagnosis of mosaic i(20q) at amniocentesis should include a detail examination of fetal brain and spine.     

Prenatal diagnosis of a distal 3p deletion associated with fetoplacental chromosomal discrepancy and confined placental mosaicism detected by array comparative genomic hybridization

ObjectiveThis study is aimed at prenatal diagnosis of a distal 3p deletion associated with fetoplacental chromosomal discrepancy and confined placental mosaicism, and providing evidence for the limitation of array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) on placental tissues for molecular cytogenetic characterization of prenatally detected aneuploidy.Case ReportA 30-year-old woman underwent amniocentesis at 18 weeks of gestation because of maternal anxiety. Results of amniocentesis revealed a distal deletion of chromosome 3p. A malformed female fetus was delivered at 20 weeks of gestation with brachycephaly and facial dysmorphisms, and a cytogenetic analysis of the cord blood revealed a karyotype of 46,XX,del(3)(p26.1),inv(9)(p12q13). A whole-genome aCGH on uncultured cord blood and placental tissue was performed. The aCGH on cord blood revealed a 7.4-Mb deletion at 3p26.3-p26.1. However, the aCGH on placental tissue revealed a 32.42-Mb gene dosage increase at 3p26.1-p22.1 and a 26.28-Mb gene dosage increase at 1p36.33-p36.11 in addition to a 7.4-Mb deletion at 3p26.3-p26.1, indicating confined placental mosaicism for partial trisomy 3p (3p26.1→p22.1) and mosaicism for partial trisomy 1p (1p36.33→p36.11). The 7.4-Mb deleted region of 3p26.3-p26.1 contained the following genes: CHL1, CNTN4, CRBN, LRRN1, and ITPR1.ConclusionFetal tissue and amniocytes offer more reliable resources for aCGH characterization of prenatally detected aneuploidy compared with placental tissues. A molecular cytogenetic evaluation of prenatally detected aneuploidy using placental tissue should raise concerns of confined placental mosaicism and fetoplacental chromosomal discrepancy.     

Prenatal diagnosis of persistent left superior vena cava,polyhydramnios and a small gastric bubble in a fetus with VACTERL association

ObjectiveWe reported a fetus that presenting with persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC), polyhydramnios, and a small gastric bubble during prenatal examination and identified VACTERL association after birth.Case reportA 34-year-old woman underwent amniocentesis at 18 weeks of gestation because of advanced maternal age and the result was normal. Subsequently, an ultrasound revealed single umbilical artery (SUA) at 21 weeks of gestation. She received a detailed fetal anatomy survey that presented the same findings and PLSVC. A small visible gastric bubble was noted at that time, and the other organs were unremarkable. Polyhydramnios was identified at 30 weeks of gestation and amnioreduction was subsequently performed at 32 weeks of gestation. However, polyhydramnios was persisted despite amnioreduction and intrauterine growth restriction was also detected. A cesarean section was performed because of fetal distress at 36 + 2 weeks, and a 1832-g female baby was delivered. Pre-axial polydactyly at left thumb, SUA and esophageal atresia with distal tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) were identified after birth. The neonate died at age of 4 days because of surgical complication following esophageal anastomosis.ConclusionPrenatal diagnosis of PLSVC associated with polyhydramnios and a small gastric bubble may indicate esophageal atresia with TEF, and further examination for associated syndromes such as VACTERL association is warranted.     

Late amniocentesis with uniparental disomy testing following successful in vitro fertilization and transfer of three mosaic embryos in a pregnancy with a favorable outcome

ObjectiveWe present late amniocentesis with the application of uniparental disomy (UPD) testing following successful in vitro fertilization (IVF) and transfer of three mosaic embryos in a pregnancy with a favorable outcome.Case reportA 41-year-old, gravida 2, para 0, woman underwent late amniocentesis at 28 weeks of gestation because of advanced maternal age. The pregnancy was conceived by IVF and transfer of three mosaic embryos, i.e., one embryo with mosaic trisomies 20 and 2, one embryo with mosaic partial trisomies 9 and 3 and one embryo with partial trisomies 11 and 17. First-trimester non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and fetal ultrasound revealed no abnormal findings. Late amniocentesis revealed a karyotype of 46,XY. Array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) revealed the result of arr [GRCh37] (X,Y) × 1, (1–22) × 2. Polymorphic DNA marker analysis using the DNAs extracted from the uncultured amniocytes and parental bloods excluded UPD 20. At 38 weeks of gestation, a healthy 3010-g male baby was delivered with no phenotypic abnormalities.ConclusionPrenatal diagnosis of normal karyotype following mosaic embryo transfer should include UPD testing if necessary.