Work

A twin with a novel pathogenic variant in CYBB induced X-linked chronic granulomatous disease: a rare case report of misdiagnosis as congenital cystic lung disease

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a rare primary immunodeficiency disorder caused by defects in phagocyte NADPH oxidase. X-linked CGD, resulting from CYBB gene mutations, accounts for approximately two-thirds of cases. Clinical manifestations typically include recurrent bacterial and fungal infections, granuloma formation, and inflammatory complications. CASE PRESENTATION: We report monochorionic diamniotic twins with a novel CYBB variant (c.1303A > T, p.Lys435Ter). The 7-month-old proband presented with recurrent respiratory infections and was initially misdiagnosed with congenital cystic lung disease. His twin brother carried the identical mutation but remained asymptomatic. Neutrophil function testing demonstrated impaired respiratory burst activity. Whole-exome sequencing confirmed a de novo nonsense mutation in the CYBB gene. CONCLUSIONS: This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of CGD and illustrates remarkable phenotypic discordance in monochorionic twins with identical genetic mutations. Environmental factors and epigenetic modifications may contribute to variable expressivity. Early genetic testing is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of suspected primary immunodeficiency disorders.

Source: BMC Pediatrics

DOI: 10.1186/s12887-026-06627-7

Authors: Lin Lin, Zongrong Gong, Genquan Yin, Gen Lu, Junzheng Peng

Institutions: Guangzhou Women and Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University

Language: English

Topic: Immunodeficiency and Autoimmune Disorders

Subfield: Immunology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,090