fbpx

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

Kindler Syndrome

Updated : August 30, 2023





Background

Kindler syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the skin, mucous membranes, and other organs. It is characterized by skin blistering and photosensitivity, as well as progressive skin atrophy and an increased risk of skin cancer. The disorder is named after Theresa Kindler, the dermatologist who first described it in 1954.

Kindler syndrome is caused by mutations in the FERMT1 gene, which provides instructions for making a protein called kindlin-1.  Kindlin-1 is involved in the attachment of cells to each other and to the extracellular matrix, which is the network of proteins and other molecules that supports cells in tissues. Mutations in the FERMT1 gene disrupt the function of kindlin-1, leading to skin fragility and other features of Kindler syndrome.

Kindler syndrome is rare, with an estimated prevalence of 1 in 500,000 to 1 in 1,000,000 individuals worldwide. The disorder appears to affect males and females equally, and there is no known racial or ethnic predilection. The severity of Kindler syndrome can vary widely, even among members of the same family with the same genetic mutation.

Epidemiology

Kindler syndrome is a rare disorder, with an estimated prevalence of 1 in 500,000 to 1 in 1,000,000 individuals worldwide. The disorder has been reported in people of various ethnic backgrounds, and there is no known racial or ethnic predilection. Kindler syndrome is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, which means that a person must inherit two copies of the mutated FERMT1 gene (one from each parent) to develop the disorder.

The parents of an affected individual each carry one copy of the mutated gene, but they typically do not show any signs or symptoms of the disorder. Kindler syndrome is typically diagnosed in infancy or early childhood, but milder cases may not be diagnosed until later in life. Because the disorder is rare and its symptoms can be similar to those of other skin disorders, it may be misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed in some cases.

Anatomy

Pathophysiology

Kindler syndrome is caused by mutations in the FERMT1 gene, which provides instructions for making a protein called kindlin-1. Kindlin-1 plays a crucial role in the attachment of cells to each other and to the extracellular matrix, which is the network of proteins and other molecules that supports cells in tissues.

In people with Kindler syndrome, mutations in the FERMT1 gene disrupt the function of kindlin-1, leading to skin fragility and other features of the disorder. Specifically, kindlin-1 mutations interfere with the formation of the hemidesmosomes, which are specialized structures that attach the outer layer of skin (the epidermis) to the underlying connective tissue (the dermis).

Without functional hemidesmosomes, the skin becomes fragile and prone to blistering and erosion. In addition to skin fragility, Kindler syndrome is also associated with photosensitivity, inflammation, and an increased risk of skin cancer. The underlying mechanisms of these features are not well understood, but they are thought to involve abnormalities in the immune system and/or DNA repair mechanisms.

Etiology

Kindler syndrome is caused by mutations in the FERMT1 gene, which provides instructions for making a protein called kindlin-1. This gene is located on chromosome 20q13.33. Kindler syndrome is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, which means that a person must inherit two copies of the mutated FERMT1 gene (one from each parent) to develop the disorder. The parents of an affected individual each carry one copy of the mutated gene, but they typically do not show any signs or symptoms of the disorder.

Most cases of Kindler syndrome are caused by new (de novo) mutations in the FERMT1 gene rather than inherited mutations. In these cases, the affected individual is the first person in their family to develop the disorder, and their parents do not carry the mutated gene. However, the individual with the new mutation can still pass the disorder on to their children if they have children with a carrier of the mutated gene. Kindler syndrome is a rare disorder and specific risk factors for developing the disorder are not known.

Genetics

Prognostic Factors

The prognosis of Kindler syndrome varies depending on the severity of symptoms and the presence of complications. In general, affected individuals have a reduced life expectancy due to an increased risk of developing skin cancer and other complications. However, with appropriate management of symptoms and regular monitoring for complications, some individuals may live well into adulthood.

The quality of life of affected individuals may be significantly affected due to the chronic nature of the condition and the impact on the skin and other organs. Therefore, early diagnosis and management of symptoms and complications are crucial for improving the prognosis of Kindler syndrome.

Clinical History

Clinical history

The clinical history of Kindler syndrome is characterized by a range of cutaneous and mucosal symptoms that usually manifest in early childhood. The severity and extent of these symptoms can vary among affected individuals. One of the earliest signs of Kindler syndrome is skin fragility, which can result in blistering and erosions, particularly in areas of the skin that are exposed to friction or trauma. These blisters can occur spontaneously or in response to minor injuries, and they tend to heal with scarring and hyperpigmentation.

In some cases, the skin may also show areas of atrophy and telangiectasia. In addition to skin involvement, Kindler syndrome can affect the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes, and gastrointestinal tract, leading to a range of symptoms such as recurrent oral ulceration, dry eyes, and difficulty swallowing.

Other features that have been reported in some cases include photosensitivity, nail dystrophy, and an increased risk of skin cancer. The symptoms of Kindler syndrome tend to persist throughout life, although the severity and frequency of blistering episodes may decrease over time. Some affected individuals may also develop complications such as infection, scarring, and contractures, which can affect their quality of life.

Physical Examination

Physical examination

On physical examination, individuals with Kindler syndrome typically exhibit skin fragility, which may result in widespread blistering and erosions that heal with scarring and hyperpigmentation. The skin lesions are most prominent in areas that are exposed to trauma or friction, such as the hands, feet, and extensor surfaces of the limbs. In some cases, the skin may also show areas of atrophy and telangiectasia.

Mucous membrane involvement is also common in Kindler syndrome and can result in recurrent oral ulceration, dry eyes, and difficulty swallowing. Other features that may be observed on physical examination include photosensitivity, nail dystrophy, and an increased risk of skin cancer. In severe cases, affected individuals may develop complications such as infection, scarring, and contractures, which can result in functional impairment and disfigurement.

Age group

Associated comorbidity

Associated activity

Acuity of presentation

Differential Diagnoses

Differential diagnosis 

The clinical features of Kindler syndrome can resemble those of other inherited disorders that affect the skin and mucous membranes, such as epidermolysis bullosa, poikiloderma with neutropenia, and Rothmund-Thomson syndrome. Therefore, these disorders are often considered in the differential diagnosis of Kindler syndrome. Other conditions that can present with blistering and skin fragility include pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid, and dermatitis herpetiformis.

In addition, photosensitivity and increased risk of skin cancer can be seen in several other genetic syndromes, such as xeroderma pigmentosum, Bloom syndrome, and Fanconi anemia. A thorough evaluation of the clinical features, family history, and laboratory findings can help to distinguish Kindler syndrome from these other conditions. Molecular genetic testing of the FERMT1 gene can confirm the diagnosis of Kindler syndrome.

The clinical features of Kindler syndrome can resemble those of other inherited disorders that affect the skin and mucous membranes, such as epidermolysis bullosa, poikiloderma with neutropenia, and Rothmund-Thomson syndrome. Therefore, these disorders are often considered in the differential diagnosis of Kindler syndrome. Other conditions that can present with blistering and skin fragility include pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid, and dermatitis herpetiformis.

In addition, photosensitivity and increased risk of skin cancer can be seen in several other genetic syndromes, such as xeroderma pigmentosum, Bloom syndrome, and Fanconi anemia. A thorough evaluation of the clinical features, family history, and laboratory findings can help to distinguish Kindler syndrome from these other conditions. Molecular genetic testing of the FERMT1 gene can confirm the diagnosis of Kindler syndrome.

Laboratory Studies

Imaging Studies

Procedures

Histologic Findings

Staging

Treatment Paradigm

There is currently no cure for Kindler syndrome, and treatment is mainly supportive and aimed at managing the symptoms and complications associated with the condition.

The following are some of the management strategies that may be recommended:

  • Wound care: The primary management of Kindler syndrome involves wound care to prevent and manage skin breakdown. Affected individuals should avoid trauma and friction to the skin, and use protective dressings or bandages to cover any areas of skin that are prone to blistering or erosions. Topical ointments or creams, such as petroleum jelly, may also be applied to keep the skin moist and prevent further damage.
  • Pain management: Pain associated with blistering and erosions can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Severe pain may require prescription pain medications.
  • Eye care: Dry eyes and other eye complications may require the use of lubricating eye drops, ointments, or other prescription medications to manage inflammation and prevent infection.
  • Nutritional support: Individuals with Kindler syndrome may require nutritional support to maintain an adequate intake of calories, vitamins, and minerals. A dietitian may be consulted to develop a nutrition plan that meets their specific needs.
  • Psychological support: Living with Kindler syndrome can be challenging, and affected individuals and their families may benefit from psychological support and counseling to cope with the emotional and social impact of the condition.
  • Monitoring for skin cancer: Regular monitoring for skin cancer is recommended, as individuals with Kindler syndrome are at an increased risk of developing skin cancer. Any suspicious lesions should be promptly evaluated by a dermatologist.
  • Genetic counseling: Genetic counseling may be recommended for affected individuals and their families to discuss the inheritance pattern of the condition and the risk of passing it on to future generations.

by Stage

by Modality

Chemotherapy

Radiation Therapy

Surgical Interventions

Hormone Therapy

Immunotherapy

Hyperthermia

Photodynamic Therapy

Stem Cell Transplant

Targeted Therapy

Palliative Care

Medication

Media Gallary

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK349072/

ADVERTISEMENT 

Kindler Syndrome

Updated : August 30, 2023




Kindler syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the skin, mucous membranes, and other organs. It is characterized by skin blistering and photosensitivity, as well as progressive skin atrophy and an increased risk of skin cancer. The disorder is named after Theresa Kindler, the dermatologist who first described it in 1954.

Kindler syndrome is caused by mutations in the FERMT1 gene, which provides instructions for making a protein called kindlin-1.  Kindlin-1 is involved in the attachment of cells to each other and to the extracellular matrix, which is the network of proteins and other molecules that supports cells in tissues. Mutations in the FERMT1 gene disrupt the function of kindlin-1, leading to skin fragility and other features of Kindler syndrome.

Kindler syndrome is rare, with an estimated prevalence of 1 in 500,000 to 1 in 1,000,000 individuals worldwide. The disorder appears to affect males and females equally, and there is no known racial or ethnic predilection. The severity of Kindler syndrome can vary widely, even among members of the same family with the same genetic mutation.

Kindler syndrome is a rare disorder, with an estimated prevalence of 1 in 500,000 to 1 in 1,000,000 individuals worldwide. The disorder has been reported in people of various ethnic backgrounds, and there is no known racial or ethnic predilection. Kindler syndrome is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, which means that a person must inherit two copies of the mutated FERMT1 gene (one from each parent) to develop the disorder.

The parents of an affected individual each carry one copy of the mutated gene, but they typically do not show any signs or symptoms of the disorder. Kindler syndrome is typically diagnosed in infancy or early childhood, but milder cases may not be diagnosed until later in life. Because the disorder is rare and its symptoms can be similar to those of other skin disorders, it may be misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed in some cases.

Kindler syndrome is caused by mutations in the FERMT1 gene, which provides instructions for making a protein called kindlin-1. Kindlin-1 plays a crucial role in the attachment of cells to each other and to the extracellular matrix, which is the network of proteins and other molecules that supports cells in tissues.

In people with Kindler syndrome, mutations in the FERMT1 gene disrupt the function of kindlin-1, leading to skin fragility and other features of the disorder. Specifically, kindlin-1 mutations interfere with the formation of the hemidesmosomes, which are specialized structures that attach the outer layer of skin (the epidermis) to the underlying connective tissue (the dermis).

Without functional hemidesmosomes, the skin becomes fragile and prone to blistering and erosion. In addition to skin fragility, Kindler syndrome is also associated with photosensitivity, inflammation, and an increased risk of skin cancer. The underlying mechanisms of these features are not well understood, but they are thought to involve abnormalities in the immune system and/or DNA repair mechanisms.

Kindler syndrome is caused by mutations in the FERMT1 gene, which provides instructions for making a protein called kindlin-1. This gene is located on chromosome 20q13.33. Kindler syndrome is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, which means that a person must inherit two copies of the mutated FERMT1 gene (one from each parent) to develop the disorder. The parents of an affected individual each carry one copy of the mutated gene, but they typically do not show any signs or symptoms of the disorder.

Most cases of Kindler syndrome are caused by new (de novo) mutations in the FERMT1 gene rather than inherited mutations. In these cases, the affected individual is the first person in their family to develop the disorder, and their parents do not carry the mutated gene. However, the individual with the new mutation can still pass the disorder on to their children if they have children with a carrier of the mutated gene. Kindler syndrome is a rare disorder and specific risk factors for developing the disorder are not known.

The prognosis of Kindler syndrome varies depending on the severity of symptoms and the presence of complications. In general, affected individuals have a reduced life expectancy due to an increased risk of developing skin cancer and other complications. However, with appropriate management of symptoms and regular monitoring for complications, some individuals may live well into adulthood.

The quality of life of affected individuals may be significantly affected due to the chronic nature of the condition and the impact on the skin and other organs. Therefore, early diagnosis and management of symptoms and complications are crucial for improving the prognosis of Kindler syndrome.

Clinical history

The clinical history of Kindler syndrome is characterized by a range of cutaneous and mucosal symptoms that usually manifest in early childhood. The severity and extent of these symptoms can vary among affected individuals. One of the earliest signs of Kindler syndrome is skin fragility, which can result in blistering and erosions, particularly in areas of the skin that are exposed to friction or trauma. These blisters can occur spontaneously or in response to minor injuries, and they tend to heal with scarring and hyperpigmentation.

In some cases, the skin may also show areas of atrophy and telangiectasia. In addition to skin involvement, Kindler syndrome can affect the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes, and gastrointestinal tract, leading to a range of symptoms such as recurrent oral ulceration, dry eyes, and difficulty swallowing.

Other features that have been reported in some cases include photosensitivity, nail dystrophy, and an increased risk of skin cancer. The symptoms of Kindler syndrome tend to persist throughout life, although the severity and frequency of blistering episodes may decrease over time. Some affected individuals may also develop complications such as infection, scarring, and contractures, which can affect their quality of life.

Physical examination

On physical examination, individuals with Kindler syndrome typically exhibit skin fragility, which may result in widespread blistering and erosions that heal with scarring and hyperpigmentation. The skin lesions are most prominent in areas that are exposed to trauma or friction, such as the hands, feet, and extensor surfaces of the limbs. In some cases, the skin may also show areas of atrophy and telangiectasia.

Mucous membrane involvement is also common in Kindler syndrome and can result in recurrent oral ulceration, dry eyes, and difficulty swallowing. Other features that may be observed on physical examination include photosensitivity, nail dystrophy, and an increased risk of skin cancer. In severe cases, affected individuals may develop complications such as infection, scarring, and contractures, which can result in functional impairment and disfigurement.

Differential diagnosis 

The clinical features of Kindler syndrome can resemble those of other inherited disorders that affect the skin and mucous membranes, such as epidermolysis bullosa, poikiloderma with neutropenia, and Rothmund-Thomson syndrome. Therefore, these disorders are often considered in the differential diagnosis of Kindler syndrome. Other conditions that can present with blistering and skin fragility include pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid, and dermatitis herpetiformis.

In addition, photosensitivity and increased risk of skin cancer can be seen in several other genetic syndromes, such as xeroderma pigmentosum, Bloom syndrome, and Fanconi anemia. A thorough evaluation of the clinical features, family history, and laboratory findings can help to distinguish Kindler syndrome from these other conditions. Molecular genetic testing of the FERMT1 gene can confirm the diagnosis of Kindler syndrome.

The clinical features of Kindler syndrome can resemble those of other inherited disorders that affect the skin and mucous membranes, such as epidermolysis bullosa, poikiloderma with neutropenia, and Rothmund-Thomson syndrome. Therefore, these disorders are often considered in the differential diagnosis of Kindler syndrome. Other conditions that can present with blistering and skin fragility include pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid, and dermatitis herpetiformis.

In addition, photosensitivity and increased risk of skin cancer can be seen in several other genetic syndromes, such as xeroderma pigmentosum, Bloom syndrome, and Fanconi anemia. A thorough evaluation of the clinical features, family history, and laboratory findings can help to distinguish Kindler syndrome from these other conditions. Molecular genetic testing of the FERMT1 gene can confirm the diagnosis of Kindler syndrome.

There is currently no cure for Kindler syndrome, and treatment is mainly supportive and aimed at managing the symptoms and complications associated with the condition.

The following are some of the management strategies that may be recommended:

  • Wound care: The primary management of Kindler syndrome involves wound care to prevent and manage skin breakdown. Affected individuals should avoid trauma and friction to the skin, and use protective dressings or bandages to cover any areas of skin that are prone to blistering or erosions. Topical ointments or creams, such as petroleum jelly, may also be applied to keep the skin moist and prevent further damage.
  • Pain management: Pain associated with blistering and erosions can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Severe pain may require prescription pain medications.
  • Eye care: Dry eyes and other eye complications may require the use of lubricating eye drops, ointments, or other prescription medications to manage inflammation and prevent infection.
  • Nutritional support: Individuals with Kindler syndrome may require nutritional support to maintain an adequate intake of calories, vitamins, and minerals. A dietitian may be consulted to develop a nutrition plan that meets their specific needs.
  • Psychological support: Living with Kindler syndrome can be challenging, and affected individuals and their families may benefit from psychological support and counseling to cope with the emotional and social impact of the condition.
  • Monitoring for skin cancer: Regular monitoring for skin cancer is recommended, as individuals with Kindler syndrome are at an increased risk of developing skin cancer. Any suspicious lesions should be promptly evaluated by a dermatologist.
  • Genetic counseling: Genetic counseling may be recommended for affected individuals and their families to discuss the inheritance pattern of the condition and the risk of passing it on to future generations.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK349072/

Free CME credits

Both our subscription plans include Free CME/CPD AMA PRA Category 1 credits.

Digital Certificate PDF

On course completion, you will receive a full-sized presentation quality digital certificate.

medtigo Simulation

A dynamic medical simulation platform designed to train healthcare professionals and students to effectively run code situations through an immersive hands-on experience in a live, interactive 3D environment.

medtigo Points

medtigo points is our unique point redemption system created to award users for interacting on our site. These points can be redeemed for special discounts on the medtigo marketplace as well as towards the membership cost itself.
 
  • Registration with medtigo = 10 points
  • 1 visit to medtigo’s website = 1 point
  • Interacting with medtigo posts (through comments/clinical cases etc.) = 5 points
  • Attempting a game = 1 point
  • Community Forum post/reply = 5 points

    *Redemption of points can occur only through the medtigo marketplace, courses, or simulation system. Money will not be credited to your bank account. 10 points = $1.

All Your Certificates in One Place

When you have your licenses, certificates and CMEs in one place, it's easier to track your career growth. You can easily share these with hospitals as well, using your medtigo app.

Our Certificate Courses