Phenotypic variability in TRPV4-associated neuropathies and neuronopathies: a case series

Abstract

TRPV4‑associated neuromuscular diseases represent a clinical spectrum of neuropathies and motor neuron disorders. To date, 3 phenotypic forms are distinguished. There are Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 2C, distal hereditary motor neuropathy type 8 (DHMN8), scapulo‑peroneal spinal muscular atrophy (SPSMA). Here we report 3 families with DNMN8 and one family with SPSMA. In all cases, DNA‑analysis revealed single nucleotide variants in the TRPV4 gene previously reported as pathogenic. In 3 probands, a combination of signs of both motor and motor‑sensory neuropathies led to difficulties in the establishment of the clinical diagnosis. Patients had mild sensory disturbances in the feet, but in all of these cases nerve conduction study revealed normal sensory nerve action potentials. Considering the prevailing signs of motor neuropathy, these patients were diagnosed with DNMN8. Clinical signs of sensory disturbances are regarded as not  contradicting  the  diagnosis,  since  they  can  be  observed  in  various  forms  of  distal  motor  neuropathies. The clinical features of SPSMA in one patient corresponded to those previously described in the literature. The involvement of the shoulder girdle muscles and the peroneal muscles and neurogenic changes in needle electromyography allow suspecting SPSMA clinically. A distinctive features of TRPV4‑associated neuromuscular diseases are the vocal cords paresis, sensorineural hearing loss and respiratory failure, however they are not obligatory according to our clinical reports.