Novel heterozygous FOXN1 mutation identified following newborn screening for severe combined immunodeficiency is associated with improving immune parameters

Abstract

Background: Forkhead-box protein N1 (FOXN1) plays a critical role in the proper development and function of thymic epithelial cells, required for T cell ontogeny. Homozygous variants in the FOXN1 gene, encoding FOXN1, cause severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), whereas heterozygous mutations are associated with variable presentations and over time, improving T cell function. Aim: To highlight the importance of broader genetic investigations to attain a definitive molecular diagnosis following abnormal newborn screening for SCID. Methods: Case report of a patient with immunodeficiency due to a novel de novo FOXN1 mutation. Results: The patient was identified following abnormal newborn screening for SCID in which T cell receptor excision circles were absent/very low. Initial immune investigations revealed severe T cell lymphopenia and poor lymphocyte function and she was diagnosed with T-B+NK+SCID. During work-up for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, extensive genetic investigations identified a novel heterozygous mutation in FOXN1. A more conservative management approach was taken, and over the following months, the patient’s immune parameters improved. Conclusion: Newborn screening for SCID has facilitated the detection of SCID, as well as other T cell immunodeficiencies, before infectious complications and organ damage occur. Heterozygous mutations in FOXN1 are associated with more variable presentations including improving immune indices with age. Here, results of genetic investigations were essential for informing the management of this case. Statement of Novelty: We report a novel heterozygous mutation in FOXN1, presenting initially as T-B+NK+ SCID with gradual improvement of immune parameters over time.