Condition in
Pediatric Genetics and Genomics

Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome

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Overview

Cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome (CFC) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the heart, face, skin, and hair. It is present from birth and can cause problems such as heart defects, distinctive facial features, and skin abnormalities like dry or thickened skin. The condition also often includes developmental delays, which can affect learning and growth.

Our approach

Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome (CFC Syndrome) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by a combination of heart defects, distinctive facial features, and skin abnormalities. The condition arises due to mutations in genes involved in the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway, most commonly BRAF, MAP2K1, MAP2K2, or KRAS. Individuals with CFC Syndrome often experience developmental delays and may face various physical and neurological challenges.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome can vary among affected individuals but commonly include:

  • Cardiac Abnormalities:
    • Congenital heart defects such as pulmonary stenosis, atrial septal defects, or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
  • Facial Features:
    • High forehead
    • Wide-set eyes (hypertelorism)
    • Downward-slanting eyelids
    • Low-set ears
    • Short nose with a depressed nasal bridge
  • Skin Abnormalities:
    • Dry, thickened, or scaly skin (ichthyosis)
    • Sparse or absent eyebrows and eyelashes
    • Curly, brittle hair
  • Growth and Developmental Delays:
    • Delayed milestones such as sitting, walking, or talking
    • Intellectual disability ranging from mild to severe
  • Gastrointestinal Issues:
    • Feeding difficulties
    • Gastroesophageal reflux
  • Neurological Problems:
    • Seizures
    • Low muscle tone (hypotonia)

Diagnosis

Healthcare professionals diagnose Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome through a series of evaluations:

  • Clinical Evaluation: Assessing physical characteristics, growth patterns, and developmental delays.
  • Medical History: Gathering detailed family and prenatal history to identify potential genetic factors.
  • Cardiac Examination: Utilizing echocardiograms or electrocardiograms to detect heart defects.
  • Genetic Testing: Conducting molecular tests to identify mutations in the BRAF, MAP2K1, MAP2K2, or KRAS genes.
  • Neurological Assessment: Evaluating for seizures or other neurological symptoms using EEGs or MRI scans.
  • Dermatological Examination: Inspecting skin, hair, and nails for abnormalities.