PHEX gene mutation in a Chinese family with six cases of X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets.

OBJECTIVE X-linked hypophosphatemic (XLH) rickets is caused by inactivating mutations in the PHEX gene, which encodes a metalloprotease that cleaves small peptide hormone. So far there are only a few reports on XLH patients from China. In the present study, we report on six XLH patients from one family. A PHEX missense mutation was found in exon 22, and a literature review on the mutations of Chinese patients was undertaken. CASE DESCRIPTION The family included six XLH patients with five females and one male (the proband). All the patients showed a low serum phosphorus, increased blood alkaline phosphatase and normal calcium levels. Mutation analysis revealed a PHEX mutation in exon 22 (c.2237G>A). In total, 15 PHEX mutations have been reported in Chinese populations at this time. CONCLUSION These data extend the spectrum of mutations in the PHEX gene in Chinese populations.