Novel heterozygous PIK3CD mutation presenting with only laboratory markers of combined immunodeficiency

Abstract

Introduction: Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-Bisphosphate 3-Kinase Catalytic Subunit Delta (PIK3CD) is one part of a heterodimer forming the enzyme phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), found primarily in leukocytes. PIK3CD generates phosphatidyl-inositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3), and is involved in cell growth, survival, proliferation, motility, and morphology. An increasing number of patients have been described with heterozygous PIK3CD gain-of-function (GOF) mutations, leading to combined immunodeficiency with both B- and T-cell dysfunction. Patients suffer recurrent respiratory infections, often associated with bronchiectasis and ear and sinus damage, as well as severe recurrent or persistent infections by herpesviruses, including EBV-induced lymphoproliferation. Aim: To present the clinical phenotypic variability of a novel PI3KCD mutation within a family. Methods: Patient information was collected prospectively and retrospectively from medical records. Comprehensive immune work up, genetic, and signaling evaluation was performed. Results: We describe here 2 patients, daughter and mother, with heterozygous PIK3CD mutation identified by whole exome sequencing and Sanger confirmation. The child was screen-positive by newborn screening for severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). Cellular assays revealed an increase in the baseline phosphorylation of T cells in the patient. Furthermore, both patients had hyper-activation of the catalytic domain, resulting in increased phosphorylation of AKT upon activation. Discussion: GOF mutations affecting the PIK3CD gene are associated with an increased risk for lymphoproliferation leading to Activated PIK3-delta syndrome (APDS). The clinical course of APDS is highly variable, ranging from combined immunodeficiency with recurrent infections, autoimmune complications, and requiring stem cell transplantation, through isolated antibody deficiency, to asymptomatic adults. Our patient is the first to be identified by newborn screening for SCID. Surprisingly, the clinical course has so far been unremarkable, as well, the mother appears to be completely asymptomatic. Nevertheless, the persistent lymphopenia indicates PIK3CD dysfunction. Because of the wide gap between laboratory findings and clinical manifestations, this kindred poses both a diagnostic as well treatment challenge. Statement of novelty: We report here a novel PIK3CD mutation diagnosed due to abnormal newborn screen for SCID.