Cornelia de Lange Syndrome

Abstract

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a rare, multifactorial, multisystem disorder that affects approximately 1/10,000–100,000 newborns. Mutations and/or variants have been identified in seven genes that have been associated with the diagnosis of this disorder. As all of them affect the cohesin complex, CdLS is also referred to as a “transcriptomopathy” or “cohesinopathy.” The phenotype and presentation vary greatly, though there is a classic phenotype that includes a distinctive craniofacial appearance and growth pattern in addition to limb malformations. Because there are multiple overlapping phenotypes with Cornelia de Lange syndrome and other syndromes and sequences, early diagnosis and management of Cornelia de Lange syndrome is imperative. This will enhance the quality of life for individuals with this disorder, as many are now likely to live well into adulthood.