Branchio-oto-renal syndrome

Abstract

Branchio-oto-renal (BOR) syndrome involves branchial arch fistulas or cysts, ear malformations with hearing loss, and anomalies of the kidney. BOR syndrome is inherited in an autosomal dominant trait and is caused in most cases by mutations in the EYA1 gene. A few families with gene mutations in SIX1 or SIX5 have also been described. The variability of clinical symptoms is wide. Renal involvement is observed in the majority of cases ranging from mild anomalies (e.g. dilation or duplication of the urinary tract) to severe hypodysplasia of the kidneys which eventually lead to renal failure. Branchio-otic syndrome (BOS) is characterized by branchial arch and ear anomalies without detectable renal pathology. BOR and BOS can be seen within the same family.