Variable expression and incomplete penetrance of developmental dysplasia of the hip: clinical challenge in a 71-member multigeneration family

J Arthroplasty. 2012 Apr;27(4):527-32. doi: 10.1016/j.arth.2011.10.016. Epub 2011 Dec 16.

Abstract

Developmental dysplasia of the hip is a crippling condition that affects children and adults. Identical twin studies support a strong causative genetic component. Although clinical tests for newborns can detect gross malformations, it is the subtle malformations that are often not detected, resulting in early onset osteoarthritis of the hip in adults. As a first step in identifying the causative mutation, we have recruited the largest documented affected family with 71 members spanning generations. Clinical and radiographic signs of developmental dysplasia of the hip are described, and the diagnostic challenge of identifying affected family members is discussed.Variable expression of disease allele is evident in several members of the family and greatly contributes to the diagnostic challenge facing clinicians.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Alleles
  • Child
  • Family
  • Female
  • Gene Expression / genetics
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease / genetics
  • Genetic Variation
  • Hip Dislocation, Congenital / diagnostic imaging
  • Hip Dislocation, Congenital / genetics*
  • Hip Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mutation / genetics
  • Pedigree
  • Penetrance*
  • Radiography
  • Young Adult