Williams-Beuren syndrome in pediatric T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A rare case report and review of literature

Medicine (Baltimore). 2024 Feb 16;103(7):e36976. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000036976.

Abstract

Background: Williams-Beuren syndrome (WBS) is a rare genetic disorder caused by hemizygous microdeletion of contiguous genes on chromosome 7q11.23. Although the phenotype features extensive heterogeneity in severity and performance, WBS is not considered to be a predisposing factor for cancer development. Currently, hematologic cancers, mainly Burkitt lymphoma, are rarely reported in patients with WBS. Here in, we report a unique case of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a male child with WBS.

Methods: This retrospective study analyzed the clinical data of this case receiving chemotherapy were analyzed. This is a retrospective study.

Results: The patient, who exhibited a typical WBS phenotype and presented with hemorrhagic spots. Chromosomal genome-wide chip analysis (CMA) revealed abnormalities on chromosomes 7 and 9. The fusion gene STIL-TAL1 and mutations in BCL11B, NOTCH1, and USP7 have also been found and all been associated with the occurrence of T-cell leukemia. The patient responded well to the chemotherapy.

Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of WBS in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. We want to emphasize that the occurrence of leukemia in this patient might be related to the loss of 7q11.23 and microdeletion of 9p21.3 (including 3 TSGs), but the relationship between WBS and malignancy remains unclear. Further studies are required to clarify the relationship between WBS and malignancy.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Chromosome Deletion
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Phenotype
  • Precursor T-Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma* / drug therapy
  • Precursor T-Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma* / genetics
  • Repressor Proteins / genetics
  • Retrospective Studies
  • T-Lymphocytes
  • Tumor Suppressor Proteins / genetics
  • Ubiquitin-Specific Peptidase 7 / genetics
  • Williams Syndrome* / complications
  • Williams Syndrome* / genetics

Substances

  • USP7 protein, human
  • Ubiquitin-Specific Peptidase 7
  • BCL11B protein, human
  • Repressor Proteins
  • Tumor Suppressor Proteins