A novel TSC2 missense variant associated with a variable phenotype of tuberous sclerosis complex: case report of a Chinese family

BACKGROUND: Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by the development of hamartomas in multiple organs, including the brain, heart, skin, kidney, lung and retina. A diagnosis of TSC is established with a recently revised clinical/radiological set of criteria and/or a causative mutation in TSC1 or TSC2 gene. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a Chinese TSC family with two siblings presenting with multiple hypomelanotic macules, cardiac rhabdomyomas and cortical tubers associated with a small subependymal nodule. The older child had seizures. A novel heterozygous missense variant in the TSC2 gene (c.899G > T, p.G300 V) was identified and shown to be inherited from their father as well as paternal grandfather, both of whom presented with variable TSC-associated signs and symptoms. CONCLUSION: We identified a novel heterozygous TSC2 variant c.899G > T as the causative mutation in a Chinese family with TSC, resulting in wide intrafamilial phenotypic variability. Our study illustrates the importance of clinical evaluation and genetic testing for family members of the patient affected with TSC.