NEMO Gene Mutations in Two Chinese Females with Incontinentia Pigmenti

PURPOSE: To identify the mutations of the NEMO gene in two Chinese females with incontinentia pigmenti. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients were both from Nanchong, Sichuan Province. Genomic DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood of patients and patient 1ʹs father. The mutations of the NEMO gene in patient 1 by GAP polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing and her father were detected. NEMO-specific polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing were used to identify the NEMO gene mutation in patient 2. RESULTS: DNA analysis identified a rare frameshift mutation, c.723_c.724insCAGG(p.A242QfsX15) in exon 5 of the NEMO gene in patient 1 with a family history but not in her healthy father. The common deletion of exons 4–10 of the NEMO gene was found in sporadic patient 2. CONCLUSION: Our data revealed that the rare frameshift mutation, c.723_c.724insCAGG(p.A242QfsX15) in exon 5 of the NEMO gene in patient 1 and the deletion of exons 4–10 of the NEMO gene in patient 2 could cause the occurrence of IP. Genetic testing is helpful for early diagnosis and genetic counseling for families.