A case of familial tumoral calcinosis/hyperostosis–hyperphosphatemia syndrome due to a compound heterozygous mutation in GALNT3 demonstrating new phenotypic features

Abstract

A new case of familial tumoral calcinosis (FTC)/hyperostosis-hyperphosphatemia syndrome (HHS) due to a novel compound heterozygous mutation in N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 3 (GALNT3) and with new phenotypic findings is presented. The response in serum phosphate and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) to medical treatment is detailed. This case expands the genotype and phenotype of FTC/HHS and gives insight into its treatment and pathophysiology. FTC and HHS are caused by mutations in FGF23, GALNT3, or KLOTHO. They are characterized by hyperphosphatemia, increased phosphate reabsorption, and elevated or inappropriately normal serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (1,25-D(3)); FTC is associated with calcific masses, and HHS with diaphyseal hyperostosis. A 36-year-old woman presented with abnormal dental X-rays at age 12 and was hyperphosphatemic at 22. She underwent radiographic, biochemical and genetic testing, and medical treatment. Serum phosphorus was 7.3 mg/dL (2.5-4.8), TmP/GFR 6.99 mg/100 mL (2.97-4.45), 1,25-D(3) 35 pg/mL (22-67). Radiographs revealed tooth anomalies, thyroid cartilage calcification, calcific masses in vertebral spaces, calcification of the interstitial septa of the soft tissue in the lower extremities, and cortical thickening of the long bones. Her total hip Z score was 1.9. C-terminus serum FGF23 was 1,210 RU/mL (20-108), but intact FGF23 was 7.4 pg/mL (10-50). DNA sequencing determined she was a compound heterozygote for mutations in GALNT3. Treatment with niacinamide and acetazolamide decreased TmP/GFR and serum phosphate, which was paralleled by a decrease in serum C-terminus FGF23. This case broadens the spectrum of phenotypic and genotypic features of FTC/HHS and suggests treatments to decrease renal phosphate reabsorption in the setting of a low intact FGF23.