# Alport Syndrome May contribute to Grand Multiparity in a Typical Low Income Setting

## TL;DR

A family with multiple cases of Alport Syndrome in a low-income setting may lead to grand multiparity due to the disease's severe health impacts.

## Contribution

The paper highlights the potential link between Alport Syndrome and grand multiparity in low-income settings.

## Key findings

- A pathogenic mutation in the COL4A5 gene confirmed X-linked Alport Syndrome in the patient and his siblings.
- The patient's condition led to multiple kidney transplants and ultimately death.
- Alport Syndrome's impact on family health can contribute to grand multiparity in low-income areas.

## Abstract

Alport syndrome (AS) is a rare, inherited disorder affecting the basement membranes of the glomerulus, cochlea, and lens. It presents with visual and hearing deficits, as well as kidney disease, which can progress to end-stage renal failure and death. A 26-year-old male presented with a three-week history of body swelling, foamy urine, worsening hematuria, and hearing and visual impairments of 17- and 10-years' duration, respectively. Three of his siblings (two males and one female) had similar symptoms. Molecular genetic screening, involving children from the two wives, identified a pathogenic mutation in the COL4A5 gene, confirming X-linked AS in the patient and his three maternal siblings. The patient underwent maintenance hemodialysis (HD), followed by two failed living-related kidney transplants, and died in his sleep a year after the second transplant, hours after a routine dialysis session.

Multiple deaths from AS within a family can contribute to grand multiparity, particularly in low-income settings.