Diagnostic strategy in segmentation defect of the vertebrae: a retrospective study of 73 patients

BackgroundSegmentation defects of the vertebrae (SDV) are non-specific features found in various syndromes. The molecular bases of SDV are not fully elucidated due to the wide range of phenotypes and classification issues. The genes involved are in the Notch signalling pathway, which is a key system in somitogenesis. Here we report on mutations identified in a diagnosis cohort of SDV. We focused on spondylocostal dysostosis (SCD) and the phenotype of these patients in order to establish a diagnostic strategy when confronted with SDV.Patients and methodsWe used DNA samples from a cohort of 73 patients and performed targeted sequencing of the five known SCD-causing genes (DLL3,MESP2,LFNG,HES7…