What Is dHMN-7A?
dHMN-7A is a type of CMT caused by autosomal dominant mutations in the SLC5A7 gene. This gene provides instructions for making a transporter that supplies the building block needed to produce acetylcholine, the signal that motor nerves use to activate muscles. Mutations in the SLC5A7 gene disrupt this function, leading to impaired nerve signal transmission.
dHMN-7A is autosomal dominant, meaning that just one of the gene’s two copies needs a mutation to cause this subtype.
Clinical Features
The age of symptom onset in dHMN-7A is variable, ranging from childhood to adulthood. As a motor neuropathy, dHMN-7A primarily affects the most distal points, with weakness and atrophy of the feet and hands, and little to no involvement of the sensory nerves. Nerve conduction studies usually show somewhat slowed conduction velocities and reduced amplitudes, consistent with an axonal form of CMT.
dHMN-7A symptoms may include:
- Weakness and atrophy in the feet and lower legs
- Foot drop
- Reduced or absent reflexes
- A steppage-style walking pattern
- Foot deformities, including high arches, and hammertoes (clawed toes)
- Progressive involvement of the hands
- Difficulty with fine motor skills and manual dexterity
- Additional symptoms not listed here
Disease Course
dHMN-7A shows wide variability in severity and progression. Some individuals are mildly affected, while others develop a more severe disease. Disease progression is generally slow, and life expectancy is not reduced.
