Purpose: The objective of this literature review was to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the current understanding of the genetic etiology for non-syndromic sagittal craniosynostosis.
Methods: Using the PubMed database and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), we systematically reviewed relevant records on germline genetics in children with non-syndromic sagittal craniosynostosis.
Results: Two hundred two records were identified, of which 25 were included following title and abstract screening and subsequent full-text review. The 25 records in combination included 829 children with non-syndromic sagittal craniosynostosis. A likely pathogenic or pathogenic germline variant was reported for 9.8% of the 827 patients for whom germline genetic testing was performed. The reported variants were distributed across 50 different genes, with more than one variant detected in 13 genes.
Conclusion: Based on the existing literature, genetic predisposition is likely to play a role in at least 9% of children with non-syndromic sagittal craniosynostosis. Future studies will benefit from international consensus in terms of diagnostic nomenclature and a higher level of standardization across study methodologies and bioinformatic approaches.
Keywords: Craniosynostosis; Etiology; Genetics; Non-syndromic; Sagittal suture.
© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.