SLC26A4 Mutation in Pendred Syndrome with Hypokalemia: A Case Report

Rationale: Pendred syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by sensorineural hearing loss, inner ear malformations, goiter, and abnormal organification of iodide. It is caused by mutations in SLC26A4 gene, which encodes pendrin (a transporter of chloride, bicarbonate, and iodide). Pendred syndrome is a common cause of syndromic deafness, but the metabolic abnormalities it causes are often overlooked. Here, we report the case of a patient diagnosed with Pendred syndrome with hypokalemia.

Patient Concerns: A 53-year-old deaf-mute woman was hospitalized due to severe limb asthenia. The emergency examination showed that her blood potassium level was 1.8 mmol/L.

Diagnoses: Through the genetic test, we found a mutation of SLC26A4 gene in NM_000441: c.2027T>A, p.L676Q, as well as the SLC26A4 exon 5-6 deletion. These genetic variations pointed to Pendred syndrome (an autosomal recessive disorder that mainly affects the inner ear, thyroid, and kidney) which is a common cause of syndromic deafness.

Interventions: The patient was treated with potassium supplements and screened for the cause of hypokalemia.

Outcomes: The patient was discharged after her potassium levels rose to the normal range.

Lessons: Patients with Pendred syndrome may also have certain metabolic abnormalities; thus, more attention should be paid to them during clinical diagnosis.