Blended Phenotypes in Individuals With Rare Diseases: A Brazilian Case Series.

Abstract

The growing use of whole exome sequencing and whole genome sequencing in clinical practice has revealed the existence of a group of individuals that do not fit into only one molecular diagnosis. These subjects are those in whom pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants occur in more than one gene, creating "blended phenotypes" There are also genes that warrant reporting, even if they are not associated with the primary phenotype, referred to as 'secondary findings'. In this report, we analyze the prevalence of blended phenotypes in a cohort of 447 individuals who underwent broad genomic sequencing and also present a case series of eight probands who presented multiple diagnoses, generating a mixed phenotype and creating a peculiar clinical situation. In total, 3.86% (8/207) were found to have blended phenotypes, which would have been missed had those individuals not undergone comprehensive genetic testing. We reflect upon the clinical complexity of such cases and explore the consequences of the use of broad sequencing strategies in clinical practice, particularly focusing on the potential to provide a more complete diagnostic scenario. By acknowledging and understanding the complexities of blended phenotypes, clinicians can adopt a more nuanced and tailored approach to patient care.