Antenatal manifestations of Smith-Lemli-Opitz (RSH) syndrome: A retrospective survey of 30 cases

Abstract
Smith‐Lemli‐Opitz (SLO) syndrome or RSH syndrome is an autosomal recessive multiple malformation, and mental retardation syndrome ascribed to 7‐dehydrocholesterol reductase deficiency, and usually diagnosed in the early postnatal period. Reviewing a series of 30 cases of SLO, we have investigated the variable antenatal expression of the disorder. Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) was the most frequent detectable trait (20/30). IUGR was either isolated (9/20) or associated with at least one other anomaly (11/20), including nuchal edema, renal, cardiac, cerebral malformations, genital anomalies, or polydactyly. In this last group, 3/11 presented with multiple malformations (≥3 anomalies). In 5/30 cases, isolated nuchal edema (3/30), and isolated cardiac (1/30) or renal malformations (1/30) were the only detectable anomalies. Ultrasound findings were considered normal in 5/30 cases and were abnormal in 25/30 cases (83%), but early detection of multiple malformations was rare (3/30, 10%). We suggest giving consideration to a more systematic sterol analysis when dealing with IUGR, especially when associated anomalies are detected.