Recurrent fever of unknown origin and unexplained bacteremia in a patient with a novel 4.5 Mb microdeletion in Xp11.23-p11.22

TL;DR

A patient with a novel X chromosome deletion shows recurrent fever and immune issues, offering new insights into fever of unknown origin.

Contribution

Identifies a novel Xp microdeletion linked to recurrent fever and immune dysfunction through comprehensive immunological analysis.

Findings

The patient exhibited elevated Th1, Th2, and Th17 cell populations and impaired Treg cell function.

Single cell analysis revealed expansion of cytotoxic CD4 T lymphocytes and upregulated interferon-stimulated genes.

X chromosome-skewed inactivation was observed, potentially influencing the manifestation of immunological symptoms.

Abstract

Fever of unknown origin (FUO) remains a formidable diagnostic challenge in the field of medicine. Numerous studies suggest an association between FUO and genetic factors, including chromosomal abnormalities. Here, we report a female patient with a 4.5 Mb Xp microdeletion, who presented with recurrent FUO, bacteremia, colitis, and hematochezia. To elucidate the underlying pathogenic mechanism, we employed a comprehensive approach involving single cell RNA sequencing, T cell receptor sequencing, and flow cytometry to evaluate CD4 T cells. Analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells revealed augmented Th1, Th2, and Th17 cell populations, and elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines in serum. Notably, the patient exhibited impaired Treg cell function, possibly related to deletion of genes encoding FOPX3 and WAS. Single cell analysis revealed specific expansion of cytotoxic CD4 T lymphocytes, characterized by upregulation of various signature genes associated with cytotoxicity. Moreover, interferon-stimulated genes were upregulated in the CD4 T effector memory cluster. Further genetic analysis confirmed maternal inheritance of the Xp microdeletion. The patient and her mother exhibited X chromosome-skewed inactivation, a potential protective mechanism against extensive X chromosome deletions; however, the mother exhibited complete skewing and the patient exhibited incomplete skewing (85:15), which may have contributed to emergence of immunological symptoms. In summary, this case report describes an exceptional instance of FUO stemming from an incompletely inactivated X chromosome microdeletion, thereby increasing our understanding of the genetics underpinning FUO.

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