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Adam MP, Feldman J, Mirzaa GM, et al., editors. GeneReviews® [Internet]. Seattle (WA): University of Washington, Seattle; 1993-2024.

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Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata Type 1

Synonym: RCDP1

, MS, MD, , PhD, , MD, MAS, , MS, CGC, and , PhD, MD.

Author Information and Affiliations

Initial Posting: ; Last Update: January 30, 2020.

Estimated reading time: 29 minutes

Summary

Clinical characteristics.

Rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata type 1 (RCDP1), a peroxisome biogenesis disorder (PBD) has a classic (severe) form and a nonclassic (mild) form. Classic (severe) RCDP1 is characterized by proximal shortening of the humerus (rhizomelia) and to a lesser degree the femur, punctate calcifications in cartilage with epiphyseal and metaphyseal abnormalities (chondrodysplasia punctata, or CDP), coronal clefts of the vertebral bodies, and cataracts that are usually present at birth or appear in the first few months of life. Birth weight, length, and head circumference are often at the lower range of normal; postnatal growth deficiency is profound. Intellectual disability is severe, and the majority of children develop seizures. Most affected children do not survive the first decade of life; a proportion die in the neonatal period. Nonclassic (mild) RCDP1 is characterized by congenital or childhood cataracts, CDP or infrequently, chondrodysplasia manifesting only as mild epiphyseal changes, variable rhizomelia, and milder intellectual disability and growth restriction than classic RCDP1.

Diagnosis/testing.

The diagnosis of RCDP1 is established in a proband with suggestive clinical, radiographic, and laboratory findings and biallelic pathogenic variants in PEX7 identified on molecular genetic testing.

Management.

Treatment of manifestations: Classic (severe) RCDP1: Management is supportive and limited by the multiple handicaps present at birth and poor outcome. Poor feeding and recurrent aspiration may necessitate placement of a gastrostomy tube; attention to respiratory function and good pulmonary toilet. Cataract extraction may restore some vision. Physical therapy to improve contractures; orthopedic procedures may improve function in some individuals. Management of developmental delay/intellectual disability as per standard of care.

Prevention of primary manifestations: Dietary restriction of phytanic acid to avoid the consequences of phytanic acid accumulation over time may benefit individuals with mild RCDP1.

Surveillance: Frequent monitoring of growth, nutritional status, and developmental and educational needs; regular assessments for evidence of aspiration, respiratory insufficiency, seizure control, vision, hearing, contractures, and orthopedic complications.

Genetic counseling.

RCDP1 is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. If both parents are known to be heterozygous for a PEX7 pathogenic variant, each sib of an affected individual has at conception a 25% chance of inheriting both pathogenic variants and being affected, a 50% chance of inheriting one pathogenic variant and being an unaffected carrier, and a 25% chance of inheriting both normal alleles. Molecular genetic carrier testing of at-risk relatives, prenatal testing for a pregnancy at increased risk, and preimplantation genetic testing are possible once the PEX7 pathogenic variants have been identified in an affected family member.

Diagnosis

Suggestive Findings

Rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata type 1 (RCDP1) should be suspected based on the individual's age and the severity of clinical and skeletal/radiographic findings.

Classic (Severe) RCDP1 (the majority of affected individuals)

Neonatal period

  • Congenital cataracts
  • Skeletal/radiographic findings
    • Rhizomelia (proximal shortening of the long bones)
    • Chondrodysplasia punctata (CDP). Punctate calcifications observed in radiographs in the epiphyseal cartilage at the knee, hip, elbow, and shoulder that can be more extensive, involving the hyoid bone, larynx, costochondral junctions, and vertebrae. Metaphyseal abnormalities may be present (see Figure 1).
    • Radiolucent coronal clefts of the vertebral bodies on lateral spine radiographs that represent unossified cartilage (See Figure 2.)
Figure 1. . X-ray of a newborn with classic (severe) RCDP showing rhizomelia and chondrodysplasia punctata (CDP) (arrows).

Figure 1.

X-ray of a newborn with classic (severe) RCDP showing rhizomelia and chondrodysplasia punctata (CDP) (arrows).

Figure 2.

Figure 2.

Lateral Infant spine showing vertebral coronal clefting (arrow)

Childhood

  • Cataracts (usually apparent by age 6 months)
  • Severe intellectual disability
  • Profound postnatal growth restriction
  • Evolution of skeletal/radiographic findings:
    • Resolution of the punctate calcifications leaving abnormal epiphyses and flared and irregular metaphyses after ages one to three years (See Figure 3a.)
    • Possible calcification of the intervertebral discs (See Figure 3b.)
    • Frontal bossing and a short, concave nasal bridge resulting from cartilaginous involvement (See Figure 4: infant and older children with classic RCDP1.)
Figure 3. a.

Figure 3

a. Progression of radiographic changes in a child with classic (severe) RCDP1 showing metaphyseal flaring (red closed arrows), epiphyseal abnormalities (white open arrow) b. Calcification of intervertebral discs (blue arrows)

Figure 4. . Characteristic facial features of classic (severe) RCDP1 showing frontal bossing, short concave nasal bridge, hypoplastic midface, upturned nose, and short appearing neck.

Figure 4.

Characteristic facial features of classic (severe) RCDP1 showing frontal bossing, short concave nasal bridge, hypoplastic midface, upturned nose, and short appearing neck. Note also rhizomelia and profound growth deficiency (children in the photos range (more...)

Nonclassic (Mild) RCDP1

  • Congenital or childhood cataracts
  • Chondrodysplasia punctata (CDP) or infrequently, chondrodysplasia manifesting as mild epiphyseal changes only (See Figure 5.)
  • Variable rhizomelia
  • Milder intellectual disability and growth restriction than classic RCDP1
Figure 5. . X-rays of nonclassic (mild) RCDP1: Shoulders show CDP (arrows) at the proximal humerus without metaphyseal changes or rhizomelia.

Figure 5.

X-rays of nonclassic (mild) RCDP1: Shoulders show CDP (arrows) at the proximal humerus without metaphyseal changes or rhizomelia.

Biochemical Testing

The finding of deficiency of plasmalogens in red blood cells, increased plasma concentration of phytanic acid (when diet includes phytanic acid sources), and normal plasma concentration of very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA) has consistently predicted the PEX7 receptor defect in RCDP1 [Braverman et al 2002, Motley et al 2002]. These assays are extremely specialized and are reliably performed in a limited number of laboratories worldwide.

Plasmalogen levels are valuable in distinguishing between classic and milder RCDP1: erythrocyte plasmalogen levels are around 10- to 30-fold higher in milder RCDP1 than in classic RCDP1 [Braverman et al 2002, Bams-Mengerink et al 2013, Duker et al 2016].

Establishing the Diagnosis

The diagnosis of RCDP1 is established in a proband with suggestive findings and biallelic pathogenic (or likely pathogenic) variants in PEX7 identified by molecular genetic testing (see Table 1).

Note: Per ACMG/AMP variant interpretation guidelines, the terms "pathogenic variants" and "likely pathogenic variants" are synonymous in a clinical setting, meaning that both are considered diagnostic and both can be used for clinical decision making [Richards et al 2015]. Reference to "pathogenic variants" in this section is understood to include any likely pathogenic variants. Identification of biallelic PEX7 variants of uncertain significance (or of one known PEX7 pathogenic variant and one PEX7 variant of uncertain significance) does not establish or rule out the diagnosis.

Molecular genetic testing approaches can include a combination of gene-targeted testing (multigene panel) and comprehensive genomic testing (exome sequencing, genome sequencing). Gene-targeted testing requires that the clinician determine which gene(s) are likely involved, whereas genomic testing does not. Individuals with the distinctive findings of classic RCDP1 described in Suggestive Findings are likely to be diagnosed using gene-targeted testing (see Option 1), whereas those with the less specific findings of nonclassic (mild) RCDP1 are more likely to be diagnosed using genomic testing (see Option 2).

Option 1

A chondrodysplasia punctata multigene panel that includes PEX7 and other genes of interest (see Differential Diagnosis) is most likely to identify the genetic cause of the condition while limiting identification of variants of uncertain significance and pathogenic variants in genes that do not explain the underlying phenotype. Note: (1) The genes included in the panel and the diagnostic sensitivity of the testing used for each gene vary by laboratory and are likely to change over time. (2) Some multigene panels may include genes not associated with the condition discussed in this GeneReview. (3) In some laboratories, panel options may include a custom laboratory-designed panel and/or custom phenotype-focused exome analysis that includes genes specified by the clinician. (4) Methods used in a panel may include sequence analysis, deletion/duplication analysis, and/or other non-sequencing-based tests. For this disorder a multigene panel that also includes deletion/duplication analysis is recommended (see Table 1).

For an introduction to multigene panels click here. More detailed information for clinicians ordering genetic tests can be found here.

Option 2

When the diagnosis of RCDP1 is not considered because an individual has atypical phenotypic features, comprehensive genomic testing (which does not require the clinician to determine which gene[s] are likely involved) is an option. Exome sequencing is the most commonly used genomic testing method; genome sequencing is also possible.

If exome sequencing is not diagnostic, exome array (when clinically available) may be considered to detect (multi)exon deletions or duplications that cannot be detected by sequence analysis. For an introduction to comprehensive genomic testing click here. More detailed information for clinicians ordering genomic testing can be found here.

Table 1.

Molecular Genetic Testing Used in Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata Type 1

Gene 1MethodProportion of Pathogenic Variants 2 Detectable by Method
PEX7 Sequence analysis 397% 4
Gene-targeted deletion/duplication analysis 5Unknown 6
1.

See Table A. Genes and Databases for chromosome locus and protein.

2.

See Molecular Genetics for information on variants detected in this gene.

3.

Sequence analysis detects variants that are benign, likely benign, of uncertain significance, likely pathogenic, or pathogenic. Variants may include small intragenic deletions/insertions and missense, nonsense, and splice site variants; typically, exon or whole-gene deletions/duplications are not detected. For issues to consider in interpretation of sequence analysis results, click here.

4.

Sequence analysis of PEX7 coding and flanking intronic regions in 133 individuals with RCDP1 from the United States and the Netherlands identified 97% of pathogenic variants [Braverman et al 2002, Motley et al 2002]. Note: In all individuals with biochemically confirmed RCDP1, at least one pathogenic PEX7 variant was identified. See Table 6.

5.

Gene-targeted deletion/duplication analysis detects intragenic deletions or duplications. Methods used may include a range of techniques such as quantitative PCR, long-range PCR, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA), and a gene-targeted microarray designed to detect single-exon deletions or duplications.

6.

Exon and multiexon PEX7 deletions have been identified [N Braverman, unpublished].

Clinical Characteristics

Clinical Description

Classic (Severe) RCDP1

The characteristic clinical features of classic RCDP1 are skeletal abnormalities, cataracts, growth restriction, and intellectual disability. Life expectancy is shortened: the majority of children do not survive beyond the first decade of life and a proportion die in the neonatal period. Of 35 affected children older than age one month, 90% survived to age one year, 55% to age five years, and approximately 20% to age 12 years [White et al 2003]. In a separate review of 66 individuals with RCDP1, 80% survived to age five years, 45% to age 12 years, and 35% to adulthood [Duker et al 2020]. Most deaths in these cohorts were secondary to respiratory complications. Some infants may die in the neonatal period; this number is not known. Clinical experience suggests that neonatal deaths were associated with congenital heart disease or lung hypoplasia [Oswald et al 2011].

Skeletal findings. Infants with RCDP1 have bilateral shortening of the humerus and to a lesser degree the femur. They typically have contractures and stiff, painful joints, causing irritability in infancy.

In a study of the MRIs of children with classic RCDP1, all individuals had cervical stenosis. More global spinal stenosis, cervical kyphosis, and thoracolumbar kyphosis were seen, but with less frequency. Tethered cord was also identified [Khanna et al 2001, Bams-Mengerink et al 2013, Abousamra et al 2019].

Cataracts. Bilateral cortical cataracts develop in virtually all affected individuals. They are usually present at birth or appear in the first few months of life and are progressive.

Growth restriction. Whereas birth weight, length, and head circumference are often at the lower range of normal, profound postnatal growth deficiency is evident throughout the life span [Duker et al 2017]. At age three years, height, weight and head circumference are around the 50th percentile for a child age 4-6 months. Rate of weight gain is slow, dropping to 5 g/day at age six months, and <2 g/day expected after age three years. RCDP1 height, weight, and head circumference growth charts are available as well as height-for-weight charts and charts showing rate of weight gain over time [Duker et al 2017].

Intellectual disability. Developmental quotients are below 30. Early developmental skills such as smiling and recognizing voices are achieved by most children with RCDP1, but at delayed ages. Skills achieved in typically developing children after age six months are never seen in children with RCDP1 [White et al 2003, Bams-Mengerink et al 2013].

Seizures. The majority of children develop seizures [White et al 2003, Bams-Mengerink et al 2013]. Myoclonic jerks are the most frequent type of seizure reported, but seizure frequency and types are variable. The median age at seizure onset was 2.5 years [Bams-Mengerink et al 2013].

Recurrent respiratory tract infections. Most children with RCDP1 have recurrent respiratory tract infections caused by a combination of neurologic compromise, aspiration, immobility, and a small chest with restricted expansion. Plasmalogen deficiency may also play a role in the chronic respiratory disease as these lipids are enriched in lung tissues and an integral component of surfactant [Oswald et al 2011, Braverman & Moser 2012, Duker et al 2020].

Congenital heart disease. Cardiac malformations have been identified in 52% and 64% of individuals with RCDP1 in the Dutch and North American cohorts respectively [Huffnagel et al 2013, Duker et al 2016]. Septal defects, tetralogy of Fallot, and peripheral pulmonary stenosis were most commonly reported. Mitral valve prolapse was also noted in several individuals.

Other. Eczema, mild ichthyosis, and skin rashes were noted in around 50% of individuals in the cohort studied by White et al [2003].

Other malformations observed in one affected individual include: ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction [Khanna et al 2001], cleft palate, diaphragmatic hernia, hypospadias, and cryptorchidism [White et al 2003].

Routine brain imaging is normal or shows cerebral and cerebellar atrophy with enlargement of the ventricles and CSF spaces [Powers et al 1999]. Cerebellar atrophy is progressive [Bams-Mengerink et al 2006]. MRI and MR spectroscopy have shown delayed myelinization, signal abnormalities in supratentorial white matter, decreased choline-to-creatine ratios, and increased levels of mobile lipids, thought to reflect the deficiency of plasmalogens, which are substantial components of myelin [Alkan et al 2003, Bams-Mengerink et al 2006, Bams-Mengerink et al 2013].

Nonclassic (Mild) RCDP1

This group is defined clinically by the ability to walk with or without support and the ability to use verbal or nonverbal types of communication [Bams-Mengerink et al 2013]. The majority of individuals with nonclassic (mild) RCDP1 have presented in early childhood with bilateral cataracts, multiple joint contractures, and developmental delays [Braverman et al 2002, Bams-Mengerink et al 2006]. A few individuals manifest cataracts within the first two years, no skeletal findings, and behavioral disorders that develop at school age [Braverman et al 2002, Yu et al 2013]. Overall life expectancy is considerably longer than that of classic RCDP1, with survival to adulthood [Bams-Mengerink et al 2013, Huffnagel et al 2013]; in a recent study 11 of 12 affected individuals survived to adulthood [Duker et al 2020].

Skeletal. Most individuals with mild RCDP1 have limited joint mobility due to flexion contractures of the elbows, knees, and hips. While the radiographic finding of CDP (chondrodysplasia punctata) is commonly noted at the time of RCDP1 diagnosis, rhizomelic limb shortening is uncommon in this group. Deformities in hip joints including coxa vara and small femoral heads have been reported (see Figure 6) [Barth et al 1996, Bams-Mengerink et al 2013]. Many of these individuals required orthopedic surgeries over time to improve mobility and activities of daily living [Barth et al 1996].

Figure 6. . Girl age five years with nonclassic RCDP1 showing better growth than classic RCDP1 and absence of rhizomelia.

Figure 6.

Girl age five years with nonclassic RCDP1 showing better growth than classic RCDP1 and absence of rhizomelia. X-rays of the hips show coxa vara of the femoral head (arrows). Femoral osteotomy was performed to improve mobility. All images provided by authors. (more...)

Cataract. Most individuals with mild RCDP1 have bilateral cataracts diagnosed in the first two years of life.

Growth of individuals with mild RCDP1 can be within normal ranges at birth. Postnatal growth rates are also better than those in classic RCDP1. Growth curves based on four individuals with nonclassic RCDP1 have been published [Duker et al 2017].

Intellect. Most individuals with mild RCDP1 have had developmental delays and learning disabilities. However, they were able to achieve gross and fine motor skills never achieved in individuals with classic RCDP1. All individuals with mild RCDP1 were able to walk and most can communicate verbally; all required some degree of special education. Brain MRI was normal in all three individuals with nonclassic RCDP1 reported by Bams-Mengerink et al [2006].

Seizures. In one cohort, three of four individuals with mild RCDP1 developed seizures in late childhood (age range 7-21 years). The type of seizures more commonly seen in this group were absence and tonic-clonic seizures [Bams-Mengerink et al 2013].

Congenital heart disease. In six individuals with mild RCDP1, cardiac defects including atrial septal defects were reported in two individuals, one of whom also had first-degree heart block. Two individuals developed mitral valve prolapse, possibly indicating degenerative cardiac changes [Huffnagel et al 2013].

Behavior disorders, usually identified at school age in the limited number of individuals described with mild RCDP1, included attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) [Bams-Mengerink et al 2013, Yu et al 2013].

In one family, two sibs with the PEX7 variant p.Ser25Phe had congenital cataract. One sib had ASD, intellectual disability, and epilepsy; the other had normal intellect with attention-deficit disorder. Elevated blood phytanic acid was observed on an unrestricted diet.

In another family, two sibs had the PEX7 variant p.Trp75Cys and ASD, intellectual disability, epilepsy, and cataracts.

Retinitis pigmentosa and peripheral neuropathy. An individual with the PEX7 variant c.-45C>T had developmental delays and poor growth in childhood; retinitis pigmentosa and peripheral neuropathy developed in adolescence [Braverman et al 2002]. Cataracts were not reported.

Genotype-Phenotype Correlations

Correlations between the predicted severity of PEX7 pathogenic variants and RCDP1 phenotype include the following:

  • All individuals homozygous for the p.Leu292Ter pathogenic variant studied to date have had classic RCDP1.
  • In individuals who are compound heterozygotes for p.Leu292Ter and another pathogenic variant, the effect of the other allele is important in determining the phenotype. Several PEX7 variants that are associated with a milder RCDP1 phenotype or adult Refsum disease have been identified. It is predicted that these encode either residual amounts of a normal PEX7 protein or a defective protein with residual function [Braverman et al 2002, Motley et al 2002, van den Brink et al 2003].

Nomenclature

RCDP1 is one of two groups of peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBD); the other group is Zellweger spectrum disorder.

Although individuals with RCDP1 have a perturbation in matrix protein import consistent with a peroxisomal assembly defect, they have a biochemical, cellular, and clinical phenotype distinct from Zellweger spectrum disorder.

Prevalence

The prevalence of RCDP1 is estimated to be lower than 1:100,000.

The high frequency of the p.Leu292Ter variant is secondary to a founder effect in individuals of northern European descent [Braverman et al 2000]. The p.Leu292Ter allele was recently identified in high frequency in a genetically isolated community in the Netherlands where the carrier frequency among tested individuals was around 6% [Mathijssen et al 2015]. See Table 6.

Differential Diagnosis

Table 2.

Genes of Interest in the Differential Diagnosis of Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata Type 1 (RCDP1)

Gene(s)DisorderMOIClinical Features of Differential Diagnosis Disorder
Overlapping w/RCDP1Distinguishing from RCDP1
GNPAT RCDP2 1, 2
(OMIM 222765)		ARClinically identicalNone
AGPS RCDP3 1, 2
(OMIM 600121)		ARClinically identicalNone
FAR1 Peroxisomal fatty acyl-CoA reductase 1 disorder (OMIM 616154)AR
  • Severe ID
  • Early-onset epilepsy
  • Congenital cataracts
  • Growth restriction
Absence of rhizomelia & CDP
PEX5 RCDP5 3
(OMIM 616716)		ARClinically identicalNone
ARSE 4, 5 X-linked chondrodysplasia punctata 1 XLCDP
  • Absence of rhizomelia & cataracts
  • Males have nasomaxillary hypoplasia & brachytelephalangy.
  • Females are not affected.
  • Normal plasmalogen levels
EBP X-linked chondrodysplasia punctata (Conradi-Hünermann syndrome) 6XLIn severely affected infants findings are bilateral & resemble those of RCDP1.
  • Usually lethal in males
  • Phenotypic variability & asymmetric findings in females (due to X-chromosome inactivation)
  • Cataracts are sectorial.
  • Limb shortening is rhizomesomelic & usually asymmetric.
  • Normal plasmalogen levels
GGCX
VKORC1 		Combined deficiency of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors (OMIM PS277450)ARCDP
  • Absence of rhizomelia & cataracts
  • Presence of nasomaxillary hypoplasia & brachytelephalangy, & bleeding disorder
  • Normal plasmalogen levels

AD = autosomal dominant; AR = autosomal recessive; CDP = chondrodysplasia punctata; MOI = mode of inheritance; XL = X-linked

1.

RCDP2 and RDCP3 are caused by deficiency of dihydroxyacetone phosphate acyltransferase and alkyldihydroxyacetonephosphate synthase, respectively (both are peroxisomal enzymes involved in plasmalogen biosynthesis).

2.

Exhaustive classifications of CDP have been published [Irving et al 2008].

3.

PEX5 pathogenic variants that cause RCDP5 are located in the PEX5 domain that is known to bind PEX7.

4.

Contiguous gene deletions involving ARSE result in more complex phenotypes, including ichthyosis and corneal opacities resulting from steroid sulfatase deficiency.

5.

X-linked recessive chondrodysplasia punctata is caused by arylsulfatase E deficiency, a vitamin K-dependent enzyme.

6.

X-linked dominant chondrodysplasia punctata is caused by defects in sterol-Δ8-isomerase, which catalyzes an intermediate step in the conversion of lanosterol to cholesterol.

Other disorders to consider in the differential diagnosis of RCDP1

  • Chondrodysplasia punctata, tibia-metacarpal type (OMIM 118651) and humero-metacarpal type [Fryburg & Kelly 1996] are inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. The gene(s) in which pathogenic variants are causative are unknown. Affected individuals have short metacarpals with shortening of various long bones. No cataracts or skin changes are present.
  • Warfarin embryopathy and other fetal vitamin K deficiencies (including vitamin K epoxide reductase deficiency; see Table 4) show CDP, but are distinguished clinically from RCDP1 by nasomaxillary hypoplasia, brachytelephalangy, and absence of rhizomelia and cataracts. With the exception that males and females are affected, this phenotype is similar to X-linked chondrodysplasia punctata 1 (CDPX1).
  • Maternal systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (OMIM 152700) and other maternal autoimmune diseases can cause CDP in the offspring, but are distinguished from RCDP1 by nasomaxillary hypoplasia, brachytelephalangy and absence of rhizomelia and cataracts. With the exception that males and females are affected, this phenotype is similar to CDPX1.

Management

Evaluations Following Initial Diagnosis

To establish the extent of disease and needs in an individual diagnosed with rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata type I (RCDP1), the evaluations summarized in Table 3 (if not performed as part of the evaluation that led to the diagnosis) are recommended.

Table 3.

Recommended Evaluations Following Initial Diagnosis in Individuals with Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata Type 1

Organ/ConcernEvaluationComment
Constitutional Measure height, weight, head circumference.Growth restriction is seen in 100% of persons w/classic (severe) RCDP1.
Biochemical Measure erythrocyte plasmalogen levels if not already performed.To help differentiate between classic & nonclassic (mild) RCDP1, to set appropriate growth, medical, & developmental expectations
Neurology MRI of the entire spine (incl flexion & extension views of the cervical spine for cervical stenosis) should be strongly considered. 1Spinal cord compression may occur at any level & can co-occur w/upper cervical movement; tethered cord can also be present.
MRI of the brain (could be done at the time of the spinal MRI)To evaluate for atrophy, myelin abnormalities
Musculoskeletal Orthopedics / physical medicine & rehab / PT & OT evalTo incl assessment of:
  • Gross motor & fine motor skills
  • Contractures & assoc pain, mobility, activities of daily living, & need for adaptive devices
  • Need for PT (to improve gross motor skills) &/or OT (to improve fine motor skills)
Skeletal survey to incl: AP/lateral spine, AP bilateral lower extremities in 1 view, AP bilateral upper extremities, & flexion/extension cervical spineDocument extent of skeletal dysplasia & chondrodysplasia punctata.
Eyes Ophthalmologic examFor evidence of congenital cataracts
Development &
behavior 		Developmental assessmentTo incl motor, adaptive, cognitive & speech-language eval
Seizures EEGEval of various seizure types
Gastrointestinal/
Feeding 		Gastroenterology / nutrition / feeding team eval
  • To incl eval of aspiration risk & nutritional status
  • Consider eval for gastrostomy tube placement & Nissen fundoplication.
Cardiovascular Echocardiogram to evaluate for congenital heart defectsTo incl eval for septal defects, tetralogy of Fallot, mitral valve prolapse
Respiratory Eval for respiratory insufficiencyDue to neurologic compromise, aspiration, immobility, restrictive lung disease, & small chest
Renal Eval for congenital anomaliesUreteropelvic junction obstruction has been observed.
Miscellaneous/
Other 		Consultation w/clinical geneticist &/or genetic counselorTo incl genetic counseling
Family supports/resourcesAssess need for:

OT = occupational therapy; PT = physical therapy

1.

Treatment of Manifestations

In classic (severe) RCDP1, management is supportive because of the multiple handicaps present at birth and the poor outcome.

In children with nonclassic (mild) RCDP1, orthopedic surgeries have been performed to maintain gait and joint mobility. Individual education plans have enabled these children to maximize benefit from the school system.

Table 4.

Treatment of Manifestations in Individuals with Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata Type 1

Manifestation/
Concern		TreatmentConsiderations/Other

Spinal cord compression

Spinal decompression w/or w/out fusionDepending on region of compression & myelopathic signs surgical intervention should be considered.
DD/ID See Developmental Delay / Intellectual Disability Management Issues.
Seizures Standardized treatment w/ASM by an experienced neurologist
  • Many ASMs may be effective; none has been demonstrated effective specifically for this disorder.
  • Education of parents/caregivers 1
Poor weight
gain / Failure
to thrive
  • Feeding therapy; gastrostomy tube placement & Nissen fundoplication may be required for persistent feeding issues.
  • Note: Improved nutrition does not enhance linear growth.
  • Use of RCDP disease-specific growth curves 2 to determine if growth is adequate
  • Low threshold for clinical feeding eval &/or radiographic swallowing study if clinical signs or symptoms of dysphagia
Phytanic acid accumulation Dietary restriction of phytanic acid 3Avoiding consequences of phytanic acid accumulation over time may benefit those w/milder forms of RCDP. 4
Contractures/
Spasticity 		Orthopedics / physical medicine & rehab / PT & OTConsider need for positioning & mobility devices.
Cataract Cataract extraction to preserve visionCommunity vision services through early intervention or school district
Cardiovascular Follow up w/cardiology according to needsThe majority of affected persons have congenital heart disease.
Respiratory Persons w/RCDP1 require good pulmonary toilet & careful attention to respiratory function. Consider regular follow up w/pediatric pulmonologist as needed.Influenza vaccine, RSV monoclonal antibody, & other interventions to prevent lung disease
Family/
Community
  • Ensure appropriate social work involvement to connect families w/local resources, respite, & support.
  • Care coordination to manage multiple subspecialty appointments, equipment, medications, & supplies
Ongoing assessment for need of palliative care involvement &/or home nursing

ASM = anti-seizure medication; DD = developmental delay; ID = intellectual disability; OT = occupational therapy; PT = physical therapy; RSV = respiratory syncytial virus

1.

Education of parents/caregivers regarding common seizure presentations is appropriate. For information on non-medical interventions and coping strategies for children diagnosed with epilepsy, see Epilepsy Foundation Toolbox.

2.
3.

See Defeat Adult Refsum Everywhere (DARE), Refsum Diet web page.

4.

Based on the observation that phytanic acid that accumulates to levels observed in persons with adult Refsum disease can cause neurologic complications [Smeitink et al 1992, Bams-Mengerink et al 2013]

Developmental Delay / Intellectual Disability Management Issues

The following information represents typical management recommendations for individuals with developmental delay / intellectual disability in the United States; standard recommendations may vary from country to country.

Ages 0-3 years. Referral to an early intervention program is recommended for access to occupational, physical, speech, and feeding therapy as well as infant mental health services, special educators and sensory impairment specialists. In the US, early intervention is a federally funded program available in all states and provides in-home services to target individual therapy needs.

Ages 3-5 years. In the US, developmental preschool through the local public school district is recommended. Before placement, an evaluation is made to determine needed services and therapies and an individualized education plan (IEP) is developed for those who qualify based on established motor, language, social or cognitive delay. The early intervention program typically assists with this transition. Developmental preschool is center-based; for children too medically unstable to attend, home-based services are provided.

All ages. Consultation with a developmental pediatrician is recommended to ensure the involvement of appropriate community, state, and educational agencies (US) and to support parents in maximizing quality of life. Some issues to consider:

  • IEP services:
    • An IEP provides specially designed instruction and related services to children who qualify.
    • IEP services will be reviewed annually to determine whether any changes are needed.
    • Special education law requires that children participating in an IEP be in the least restrictive environment feasible at school and included in general education as much as possible, when and where appropriate.
    • Vision and hearing consultants should be a part of the child's IEP team to support access to academic material.
    • PT, OT, and speech services will be provided in the IEP to the extent that the need affects the child's access to academic material. Beyond that, private supportive therapies based on the affected individual's needs may be considered. Specific recommendations regarding type of therapy can be made by a developmental pediatrician.
    • As a child enters the teen years, a transition plan should be discussed and incorporated in the IEP. For those receiving IEP services, the public school district is required to provide services until age 21.
  • A 504 plan (Section 504: a US federal statute that prohibits discrimination based on disability) can be considered for those who require accommodations or modifications such as front-of-class seating, assistive technology devices, classroom scribes, extra time between classes, modified assignments, and enlarged text.
  • Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) enrollment is recommended. DDA is a public agency that provides services and support to qualified individuals. Eligibility differs by state but is typically determined by diagnosis and/or associated cognitive/adaptive disabilities.
  • Families with limited income and resources may also qualify for supplemental security income (SSI) for their child with a disability.

Motor Dysfunction

Gross motor dysfunction

  • Physical therapy is recommended to maximize mobility and to reduce the risk for later-onset orthopedic complications (e.g., contractures, scoliosis, hip dislocation).
  • Consider use of durable medical equipment and positioning devices as needed (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers, bath chairs, orthotics, adaptive strollers).

Fine motor dysfunction. Occupational therapy is recommended for difficulty with fine motor skills that affect adaptive function such as feeding, grooming, dressing, and writing.

Oral motor dysfunction should be assessed at each visit and clinical feeding evaluations and/or radiographic swallowing studies should be obtained for choking/gagging during feeds, poor weight gain, frequent respiratory illnesses, or feeding refusal that is not otherwise explained. Assuming that the child is safe to eat by mouth, feeding therapy (typically from an occupational or speech therapist) is recommended to help improve coordination or sensory-related feeding issues. Feeds can be thickened or chilled for safety. When feeding dysfunction is severe, an NG-tube or G-tube may be necessary.

Communication issues. Consider evaluation for alternative means of communication (e.g., augmentative and alternative communication [AAC]) for individuals who have expressive language difficulties. An AAC evaluation can be completed by a speech language pathologist who has expertise in the area. The evaluation will consider cognitive abilities and sensory impairments to determine the most appropriate form of communication. AAC devices can range from low-tech, such as picture exchange communication, to high-tech, such as voice generating devices. Contrary to popular belief, AAC devices do not hinder verbal development of speech, but rather support optimal speech and language development.

Social/Behavioral Concerns

Children with nonclassic (mild) RCDP1 may qualify for and benefit from interventions used in treatment of autism spectrum disorder, including applied behavior analysis (ABA). ABA therapy is targeted to the individual child's behavioral, social, and adaptive strengths and weaknesses and typically performed one on one with a board-certified behavior analyst.

Consultation with a developmental pediatrician may be helpful in guiding parents through appropriate behavior management strategies or providing prescription medications, such as medication used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, when necessary.

Concerns about serious aggressive or destructive behavior can be addressed by a pediatric psychiatrist.

Surveillance

Table 5.

Recommended Surveillance for Individuals with Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata Type 1

System/ConcernEvaluationFrequency
Feeding
  • Measurement of growth parameters & plotting on RCDP-specific growth curves 1
  • Eval of nutritional status & safety of oral intake
At each visit
Respiratory Monitor for evidence of aspiration, respiratory insufficiency.
Neurologic
  • Assess for new manifestations such as seizures.
  • Monitor those w/seizures as clinically indicated.
  • Neurologic exam for signs of myelopathy that could suggest cord compression
Phytanic acid
accumulation 		In children w/nonclassic (mild) RCDP1: measure phytanic acid levels. 2Annually
Development &
behavior 		In children w/nonclassic (mild) RCDP1: monitor developmental progress & educational needs; assess for ASD & ADHD. 3At each visit
Musculoskeletal
  • Physical medicine, OT/PT assessment of mobility, range of motion
  • Monitor for development of kyphosis or scoliosis.
Eyes
  • Vision
  • Need for vision services
Every 3 mos until cataracts detected, then as recommended by treating ophthalmologist
Cardiovascular Cardiac exam, ECHO, & EKG as neededPer treating cardiologist
Miscellaneous/
Other 		Assess family need for social work support (e.g., palliative/respite care, home nursing; other local resources) & care coordination.At each visit

Based on the health supervision guidelines for primary caretakers proposed in a retrospective review of the natural history of classic (severe) RCDP1 in 35 individuals [White et al 2003]

ADHD = attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; ASD = autism spectrum disorder

1.
2.

Surveillance of phytanic acid levels in individuals with milder disease is useful to prevent neurologic consequences of phytanic acid accumulation [Smeitink et al 1992].

3.

Evaluation of Relatives at Risk

See Genetic Counseling for issues related to testing of at-risk relatives for genetic counseling purposes.

Therapies Under Investigation

Search ClinicalTrials.gov in the US and EU Clinical Trials Register in Europe for access to information on clinical studies for a wide range of diseases and conditions. Note: There may not be clinical trials for this disorder.

Studies in rodents suggest that plasmalogen precursor supplementation using alkylglycerol sources can increase plasmalogen concentrations in somatic tissues but not in the nervous system [Braverman et al 2010, Brites et al 2011, Malheiro et al 2019].

Anecdotal reports of alkylglycerol supplementation in a few individuals with classic RCDP1 have not indicated dramatic clinical benefit; however, alkylglycerol supplementation in humans has not yet been studied in a systematic fashion.

Nonsense suppressor drugs were unable to recover protein production in individuals with the common p.Leu292Ter variant [Dranchak et al 2011].

Genetic Counseling

Genetic counseling is the process of providing individuals and families with information on the nature, mode(s) of inheritance, and implications of genetic disorders to help them make informed medical and personal decisions. The following section deals with genetic risk assessment and the use of family history and genetic testing to clarify genetic status for family members; it is not meant to address all personal, cultural, or ethical issues that may arise or to substitute for consultation with a genetics professional. —ED.

Mode of Inheritance

Rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata type 1 (RCDP1) is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner.

Risk to Family Members

Parents of a proband

  • The parents of an affected child are obligate heterozygotes (i.e., carriers of one PEX7 pathogenic variant).
  • Molecular genetic testing is recommended for the parents of a proband to confirm that both parents are heterozygous for a PEX7 pathogenic variant and to allow reliable recurrence risk assessment. (De novo variants are known occur at a low but appreciable rate in autosomal recessive disorders [Jónsson et al 2017].)
  • Heterozygotes are asymptomatic and are not at risk of developing the disorder.

Sibs of a proband

  • If both parents are known to be heterozygous for a PEX7 pathogenic variant, each sib of an affected individual has at conception a 25% chance of inheriting both pathogenic variants and being affected, a 50% chance of inheriting one pathogenic variant and being an asymptomatic carrier, and a 25% chance of being unaffected and not a carrier.
  • Heterozygotes (carriers) are asymptomatic and are not at risk of developing the disorder.

Offspring of a proband. To date, individuals with RCDP1 are not known to reproduce.

Other family members. Each sib of the proband's parents is at a 50% risk of being a carrier of a PEX7 pathogenic variant.

Carrier Detection

Molecular genetic carrier testing for at-risk relatives requires prior identification of the PEX7 pathogenic variants in the family.

Note: Carriers cannot be identified by biochemical methods.

Related Genetic Counseling Issues

Family planning

  • The optimal time for determination of genetic risk, clarification of carrier status, and discussion of the availability of prenatal/preimplantation genetic testing is before pregnancy.
  • It is appropriate to offer genetic counseling (including discussion of potential risks to offspring and reproductive options) to young adults who are carriers or are at risk of being carriers.

DNA banking. Because it is likely that testing methodology and our understanding of genes, pathogenic mechanisms, and diseases will improve in the future, consideration should be given to banking DNA from probands in whom a molecular diagnosis has not been confirmed (i.e., the causative pathogenic mechanism is unknown). For more information, see Huang et al [2022].

Prenatal Testing and Preimplantation Genetic Testing

Molecular genetic testing. Once the PEX7 pathogenic variants have been identified in an affected family member, prenatal testing for a pregnancy at increased risk and preimplantation genetic testing are possible.

Biochemical testing. Prenatal testing for pregnancies at 25% risk for RCDP1 is also possible by assay of plasmalogen biosynthesis in cultured chorionic villi obtained by CVS (usually performed at ~10-12 weeks' gestation) or in cultured amniocytes obtained by amniocentesis (usually performed at ~15-18 weeks' gestation).

Ultrasound examination. Rhizomelia and punctate calcifications have been noted on ultrasound examination as early as 18 to 19 weeks [Landino et al 2017, Krakow et al 2003, Zwijnenburg et al 2010]. Others have reported these findings along with bilateral cataracts at 32 weeks, and epiphyseal stippling shown four weeks later [Başbuğ et al 2005]. Homozygosity of the p.Leu292Ter variant in PEX7 was verified in the case reported by Zwijnenburg et al [2010].

Resources

GeneReviews staff has selected the following disease-specific and/or umbrella support organizations and/or registries for the benefit of individuals with this disorder and their families. GeneReviews is not responsible for the information provided by other organizations. For information on selection criteria, click here.

Molecular Genetics

Information in the Molecular Genetics and OMIM tables may differ from that elsewhere in the GeneReview: tables may contain more recent information. —ED.

Table A.

Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata Type 1: Genes and Databases

GeneChromosome LocusProteinLocus-Specific DatabasesHGMDClinVar
PEX7 6q23​.3 Peroxisomal targeting signal 2 receptor dbPEX, PEX7 Gene Database
PEX7 database 		PEX7 PEX7

Data are compiled from the following standard references: gene from HGNC; chromosome locus from OMIM; protein from UniProt. For a description of databases (Locus Specific, HGMD, ClinVar) to which links are provided, click here.

Table B.

OMIM Entries for Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata Type 1 (View All in OMIM)

215100RHIZOMELIC CHONDRODYSPLASIA PUNCTATA, TYPE 1; RCDP1
601757PEROXISOME BIOGENESIS FACTOR 7; PEX7

Molecular Pathogenesis

RDCP1 is a disorder of peroxisome biogenesis, caused by defects in PEX7. PEX7 protein is a receptor for peroxisomal matrix enzymes that contain a PTS2 targeting sequence. The enzymes:

  • AGPS (required for plasmalogen synthesis)
  • PHYH (required for phytanic acid oxidation)
  • ACAA1 (involved in fatty acid B oxidation, but not required)

PEX7 binds these enzymes to the PEX5 receptor (which binds PTS1-targeted enzymes) in the cytosol to carry its cargo to the peroxisome membrane, where the enzymes are translocated inside. Subsequently, the import complex is disassembled, and the PEX7 receptor and other proteins of the complex are recycled for another round of import. This import process, along with the formation of new peroxisomes and division of existing ones, is termed peroxisome biogenesis and requires the coordinated action of multiple PEX proteins. Defects in any one of 13 of these cause the peroxisome biogenesis disorder Zellweger spectrum. See Kunze et al [2011], Waterham & Ebberink [2012], and Waterham et al [2016] for details of PEX genes, peroxisome biogenesis, and disorders of peroxisome deficiency.

Mechanism of disease causation. Pathogenic variants in PEX7 impair the import of PTS2-targeted peroxisome matrix enzymes resulting in deficient activity of these enzymes; however, other peroxisomal functions remain intact, such as import of PTS1-targeted proteins by PEX5 and peroxisome membrane assembly. In vitro assays in fibroblasts show that the PTS2-targeted peroxisomal matrix enzymes remain cytosolic and are degraded in individuals with RCDP1. There is no evidence to support gain-of-function variants as a cause of RCDP1.

Variants associated with milder RCDP1 phenotype or adult Refsum disease are either:

  • Missense variants located on the surface of the PEX7 protein and, thus, unlikely to disrupt its structural integrity (p.Ser25Phe, p.His285Arg, p.Thr14Pro); OR
  • "Leaky" alleles, potentially able to generate residual amounts of normal PEX7 protein (c.-45C>T, c.340-10A>G) or to reinitiate translation in-frame (p.His18ArgfsTer35) or located at a downstream methionine residue (p.Gly7ValfsTer51) (reference sequences NM_000288.3, NP_000279.1) [Braverman et al 2002, Motley et al 2002, van den Brink et al 2003].

PEX7-specific laboratory technical considerations. Technical considerations in sequencing PEX7 include reviewing the 5'UTR and intron 3 for the reported variants in Table 6.

Notable PEX7 variants. Exon and multiexon deletions in PEX7 have been identified [N Braverman, unpublished].

Table 6.

Notable PEX7 Pathogenic Variants

RCDP1 TypeDNA Nucleotide Change (Alias 1)Predicted Protein ChangeComment [Reference]
Classic (severe) 2c.903+1G>C
(IVS9+1G>C)		–Account for a large fraction of pathogenic variants assoc w/classic (severe) RCDP [Braverman et al 2002, Motley et al 2002]
c.649G>Ap.Gly217Arg
c.653C>Tp.Ala218Val
c.875T>A 3p.Leu292Ter
Nonclassic (mild)c.45_52dupp.His18ArgfsTer35Nonclassic (mild) RCDP1 (homozygote) [Motley et al 2002]
c.225G>Cp.Trp75CysNonclassic (mild) RCDP1 (homozygote) [Yu et al 2013]
c.854A>Gp.His285ArgNonclassic (mild) RCDP (homozygote or in compound heterozygosity w/p.Leu292Ter) [Braverman et al 2002, Motley et al 2002, Bams Mengerink et al 2013]
c.-45C>T–Nonclassic (mild) RCDP (in compound heterozygosity w/p.Leu292Ter) [Braverman et al 2002]
c.74C>Tp.Ser25PheNonclassic (mild) RCDP1 (in compound heterozygosity with p.Ala218Val) [Braverman et al 2002, Yu et al 2013]

Variants listed in the table have been provided by the authors. GeneReviews staff have not independently verified the classification of variants. GeneReviews follows the standard naming conventions of the Human Genome Variation Society (varnomen​.hgvs.org). See Quick Reference for an explanation of nomenclature. Reference sequence: NP_000279​.1, NM_000288​.3

1.

Variant designation that does not conform to current naming conventions

2.

p.Leu292Ter was the most common, accounting for 51% of pathogenic variants; p.Leu292Ter, p.Gly217Arg, and p.Ala218Val together account for up to 68% of pathogenic variants; c.903+1G>C, p.Gly217Arg and p.Ala218Val together account for 17% of alleles.

3.

Homozygous individuals have classic RCDP. This is a founder allele in persons of northern European ancestry [Braverman et al 2000], and is observed also in a genetically isolated community in the Netherlands [Mathijssen et al 2015].

Chapter Notes

Author History

Michael B Bober, PhD, MD (2020-present)
Nancy E Braverman, MS, MD (2001-present)
Angela Duker, MS, CGC (2020-present)
Wedad Fallatah, MD, MAS (2020-present)
Ann B Moser, BA; Kennedy Krieger Institute (2001-2020)
Steven K Steinberg, PhD (2001-present)

Revision History

  • 30 January 2020 (bp) Comprehensive update posted live
  • 13 September 2012 (me) Comprehensive update posted live
  • 2 March 2010 (me) Comprehensive update posted live
  • 18 July 2006 (me) Comprehensive update posted live
  • 7 February 2005 (cd) Revision: test availability
  • 26 February 2004 (cd) Revision: test availability
  • 13 February 2004 (me) Comprehensive update posted live
  • 16 November 2001 (me) Review posted live
  • 10 June 2001 (nb) Original submission

References

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