A novel ZMIZ1 variant associated with NEDDFSA and new ocular features: case report and review of literature

Introduction: Neurodevelopmental disorder with dysmorphic facies and distal skeletal anomalies (NEDDFSA) is a recently described syndromic disease linked to ZMIZ1 genetic variants. We present a novel ZMIZ1 variant associated with a phenotype of NEDDFSA in a pediatric patient presenting with multiple anomalies including bilateral congenital ptosis and blepharophimosis, floppy eyelids, telecanthus, downward palpebral slants, myopia, cryptorchidism, hallux valgus and developmental delay.

Methods: Genetic testing performed on a large panel revealed a likely pathogenic de novo variant in the ZMIZ1 gene (heterozygous, c.881C>T), consistent with a molecular diagnosis of an autosomal dominant ZMIZ1-related condition. This variant was predicted to result in the amino acid substitution p.Thr294Ile. We also conducted a targeted literature review for reported cases of ZMIZ1 variants and associated phenotypes by searching MEDLINE through PubMed and Google Scholar from inception to May 2024. References and abstracts were screened independently by two authors. Review of the literature permitted the analysis of 27 cases of ZMIZ1 variants in patients with syndromic phenotypes.

Results: The most common ophthalmic finding was ptosis (35%). Refractive error was common (myopia in 20%, hyperopia in 12%). Other findings included strabismus (12%) and amblyopia (16%).

Discussion: We describe a novel ZMIZ1 variant associated with NEDDFSA and previously undescribed ocular features. Our literature review summarizes the ophthalmic findings in this seldom encountered disorder, thus providing clear and concise data for clinicians and improving patient care.