Neonatal erythroderma as a first manifestation of Menkes disease

Pediatrics. 2012 Jul;130(1):e239-42. doi: 10.1542/peds.2011-1558. Epub 2012 Jun 18.

Abstract

Menkes disease is an X-linked recessive lethal multisystemic disorder of copper metabolism. Progressive neurodegeneration, connective tissue disturbances, and peculiar kinky hair are the main manifestations. The low serum copper and ceruloplasmin suggests the diagnosis, which is confirmed by mutation analysis of the ATP7A gene. We report an exceptional presentation of classic Menkes disease with neonatal erythroderma. Genetic study revealed a deletion in exons 8 to 12 in the ATP7A gene. This study could allow pediatricians and pediatric dermatologists to diagnose the disorder as early as possible to establish prompt treatment with parenteral copper-histidine supplementation to improve prognosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adenosine Triphosphatases / genetics
  • Cation Transport Proteins / genetics
  • Copper-Transporting ATPases
  • Dermatitis, Exfoliative / etiology*
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Genetic Markers
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Menkes Kinky Hair Syndrome / complications
  • Menkes Kinky Hair Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Menkes Kinky Hair Syndrome / genetics
  • Sequence Deletion

Substances

  • Cation Transport Proteins
  • Genetic Markers
  • Adenosine Triphosphatases
  • ATP7A protein, human
  • Copper-Transporting ATPases