Two novel variants in ALDH1A3 associated with anophthalmia and congenital cystic eye

Purpose: We present the case of a newborn with right anophthalmia, left congenital cystic eye, and two novel variants in the ALDH1A3 gene. This report provides a comprehensive discussion of the clinical presentation, management strategies, and long-term follow-up for this rare condition.

Methods: A thorough ophthalmic examination was performed. Genetic analysis employed next-generation sequencing targeting a panel of 50 genes implicated in microphthalmia, anophthalmia, and coloboma.

Results: A one-day-old female, born to unrelated parents, was referred due to bilateral ocular malformations. Prenatal ultrasound in the third trimester had raised concerns about a congenital ocular developmental anomaly, and fetal magnetic resonance imaging suggested right anophthalmia and left eye aphakia. Postnatal examination revealed an empty right orbital cavity and a bluish lesion bulging from the left lower lid. Orbital imaging confirmed the bilateral absence of ocular structures and identified a cystic lesion in the left orbit. At three months of age, an orbital expander was placed in the right anophthalmic socket. At fifteen months, the left orbital cyst was excised due to rapid growth. Histopathological analysis revealed neuroglial tissue lining the cyst, consistent with a congenital cystic eye. A delay in psychomotor development has been noted, but no other signs of systemic conditions have been identified to date. Genetic testing identified two previously unreported ALDH1A3 variants: c.1036C>A (p.Pro346Thr) and c.981C>G (p.Tyr327*).

Conclusion: Our study identifies two previously unreported variants in the ALDH1A3 gene, broadening the understanding of its phenotypic spectrum. We report the first association between ALDH1A3 variants and congenital cystic eye.