Molecular genetic study of a family affected with punctate palmoplantar keratoderma

Objective To analyze the clinical characteristics and causative mutation in an ethnic Han Chinese family affected with punctate palmoplantar keratoderma (PPPK). Methods Clinical characteristics and inheritance pattern of the family were analyzed. Two seriously affected individuals from the family were investigated by whole exome sequencing. Three healthy individuals from the family and 120 non-PPPK individuals were evaluated to validate the result. Results The family was characterized by keratotic papules on the palms and soles, which gradually increased in size and number with age and coalesced with each other, particularly over the pressure part of the palms and soles. The family has featured autosomal dominant inheritance. A heterozygous frameshift variant c. 419delC in exons of the CELA1 gene was identified in all affected individuals but not among non-affected members. Conclusion A heterozygous frameshift variant c. 419delC in CELA1 gene probably underlies the disease in the family affected with PPPK. Key words: Punctate palmoplantar keratoderma; Whole exome sequencing; CELA1 gene