STAC3-related myopathy: A Report of a Cohort of Seven Saudi Arabian Patients

Abstract

Aim The study aims to review all the genetically confirmed STAC3-related myopathy being followed in a single center in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Methodology A retrospective review of all genetically confirmed STAC3-related myopathy followed in our clinic has been conducted. Results 7 patients with STAC3-related myopathy have been found in our cohort, with all the patients presenting with infantile hypotonia, myopathic facies, and muscle weakness in the first year of life. Feeding difficulties and failure to thrive were found in all patients except one who died during the neonatal period. Respiratory muscle involvement was also found in 5 out of 6 formally tested patients while cleft palate was found in 5 patients. Conclusion STAC3-related myopathy is a relatively rare, malignant hyperthermia (MH) - causing muscle disease described in specific, highly consanguineous populations. Making the diagnosis in myopathic patients with cleft palate preoperatively can prevent MH-induced, anesthesia-related perioperative complications.