Last updated: 11/19/2024
Years published: 1993, 1994, 1995, 1997, 2005, 2014, 2017, 2024
NORD gratefully acknowledges Gioconda Alyea, MD (FMG), MS, National Organization for Rare Disorders and Ann C.M. Smith, MA, DSc (Hon), Sr. Genetic Counselor/Contractor, SMS Research Studies, Office of the Clinical Director, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, for assistance in the preparation of this report.
Summary
Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS) is a complex developmental disorder that affects multiple organ systems of the body. The disorder is characterized by a pattern of abnormalities that are present at birth (congenital) as well as behavioral and cognitive problems. Common symptoms include distinctive facial features, skeletal malformations, varying degrees of intellectual disability, speech and motor delays, sleep disturbances and self-injurious or attention-seeking behaviors. The specific symptoms present in each affected person can vary extensively from one individual to another. Approximately 90% of cases are caused when a portion of chromosome is missing or deleted (monosomic). This deleted portion within chromosome 17p11.2 includes the RAI1 gene, which is thought to play a major role in the development of the disorder. In the remaining cases, there is no deleted material on chromosome 17; these cases are caused by changes (variants) in the RAI1 gene. Other genes within the deleted segment may also play a role in variable features in the syndrome but it is not fully understood how significant a role they play in the development of SMS.
Introduction
Smith-Magenis syndrome was first reported in the medical literature in 1982 by Ann Smith, a genetic counselor, and colleagues. In 1986, Smith and Dr. R. Ellen Magenis identified nine patients with the disorder further delineating the syndrome. Since that time, numerous additional people have been diagnosed, allowing doctors to develop a better understanding of this complex neurodevelopmental disorder.
Smith-Magenis syndrome is a highly variable disorder. The specific symptoms present and the overall severity of the disorder can vary from one person to another. It is important to understand that affected individuals will not have all the symptoms discussed below and that every individual is unique. Parents should talk to the physician and medical team about their childโs specific case, associated symptoms and overall prognosis.
Less common symptoms may include immune system dysfunction, thyroid function abnormalities (hypothyroidism), heart (cardiac) defects, kidney (renal) and/or urinary tract malformations, cleft lip and cleft palate and seizures which may go unnoticed (subclinical seizures).
Peripheral neuropathy, which is a general term for any disorder of the peripheral nervous system, may also occur. Peripheral neuropathy includes any disorder that primarily affects the nerves outside the central nervous system (i.e. brain and spinal cord). Symptoms may include a decreased sensitivity to pain commonly seen in SMS. Peripheral neuropathy is often associated with the loss of sensation or abnormal sensations such as tingling, burning, or pricking along the affected nerves, but it is unknown whether this occurs in individuals with SMS.
In about 90% of affected people, a portion of the short arm (p) of chromosome 17 (17q11.2) is missing, which is referred to as deleted or monosomic. Chromosomes, which are present in the nucleus of human cells, carry genetic information for each individual. Human body cells normally have 46 chromosomes. Pairs of human chromosomes are numbered from 1 through 22 and the sex chromosomes are designated X and Y. Males have one X and one Y chromosome, and females have two X chromosomes. Each chromosome has a short arm designated โpโ and a long arm designated โqโ. Chromosomes are further sub-divided into many bands that are numbered. For example, โchromosome 17p11.2โ refers to band 11.2 on the short arm of chromosome 17. The numbered bands specify the location of the thousands of genes that are present on each chromosome.
In people with SMS, the deleted section of chromosome 17 includes the RAI1 gene. Genes provide instructions for creating proteins that play a critical role in many functions of the body. When a gene is missing due to a monosomic chromosome abnormality, the protein product of that gene is reduced. Variants in the RAI1 gene lead to insufficient levels of functional copies of the protein product normally produced by the gene.
Depending upon the functions of the protein, this can affect many organ systems of the body, including the brain. The specific functions of the protein produced (encoded) by the RAI1 gene are not fully understood.
The exact cause of the chromosomal alteration in SMS is unknown. The medical literature has indicated that virtually all documented cases appear to be due to a spontaneous (de novo) genetic change that occurs for unknown reasons.
Rarely, SMS is the result of an error during very early embryonic development due to a chromosomal balanced translocation in one of the parents. A translocation is balanced if pieces of two or more chromosomes break off and trade places, creating an altered but balanced set of chromosomes. If a chromosomal rearrangement is balanced, it is usually harmless to the person who has it. However, this may be associated with a higher risk of abnormal chromosomal development in the personโs children. In these cases, the clinical features of children may be influenced by additional imbalances of chromosomes other than chromosome 17. Chromosomal testing can determine whether a parent has a balanced translocation. For parents with a child with SMS who both have a normal chromosome analysis, the risk of recurrence in a future pregnancy is below 1%.
The remaining 10% of cases of SMS are caused by changes (variants) in the RAI1 gene. These variants may occur randomly with no family history (de novo variant) or be inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Dominant genetic disorders occur when only a single copy of a disease-causing gene variant is necessary to cause the disease. The gene variant can be inherited from either parent or can be the result of a new (de novo) changed gene in the affected individual that is not inherited. The risk of passing the gene variant from an affected parent to a child is 50% for each pregnancy. The risk is the same for males and females.
SMS may occur because of germline mosaicism. In germline mosaicism, some of a parentโs reproductive (germ) cells carry the RAI1 gene variant or chromosome 17p deletion, while other germ cells do not (mosaicism). In addition, the other cells of a parent also do not have either of these chromosomal abnormalities; consequently, the parents are unaffected. However, as a result, one or more of the parentโs children may inherit the germ cell with a chromosomal abnormality, leading to the development of SMS. Germline mosaicism is suspected when apparently unaffected parents have more than one child with the disorder. The likelihood of a parent passing on a mosaic germline chromosomal abnormality to a child depends upon the percentage of the parentโs germ cells that have the abnormality versus the percentage that do not. There is no test for germline variants or chromosome abnormality prior to pregnancy. Testing during pregnancy may be available and is best discussed with a genetic specialist.
A child born to an individual with SMS is at a theoretical risk of 50% to inherit the deletion or RAI1 variant that causes the disorder. The fertility in SMS in general is not fully understood; however, there is at least one report in the medical literature of a mother with SMS having a child with SMS.
Smith-Magenis syndrome affects males and females in equal numbers. The incidence is estimated to be 1 in 15,000-25,000 people in the general population in the United States. However, people may go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, making it difficult to determine the true frequency of SMS in the general population. SMS has been reported throughout the world and in all ethnic groups.
The diagnosis of Smith-Magenis syndrome is based upon identification of characteristic symptoms, a detailed patient and family history, a thorough clinical evaluation and a variety of specialized genetic tests. The diagnosis of SMS is confirmed when deletion 17p11.2 (cytogenetic analysis or microarray) or RAI1 gene variant is identified.
Clinical Testing and Workup
In the past, a specific chromosomal study known as G-band analysis, which shows missing (deleted) material on chromosome 17p, was used to help obtain a diagnosis of SMS. Chromosomes may be studied from a blood sample. During this test the chromosomes are stained so that they can be more easily seen and then are examined under a microscope where the missing segment of chromosome 17p can be detected (karyotyping). To determine the precise breakpoint, a more sensitive test known as fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) may be necessary. During a FISH exam, probes marked by a specific color of fluorescent dye are attached to a specific chromosome allowing a better view of that specific region of the chromosome.
Chromosomal microarray analysis may also be used. During this exam, a personโs DNA is compared to the DNA of a person without a chromosomal abnormality A chromosome abnormality is noted when a difference is found between the DNA samples. Chromosomal microarray analysis allows for the detection of very small changes (missing or duplicated segments) or alterations.
Molecular genetic testing that shows a RAI1 gene variant can confirm a diagnosis of having SMS.
Treatment
Treatment may require the coordinated efforts of a team of specialists. Pediatricians, surgeons, cardiologists, dental specialists, speech pathologists, audiologists, ophthalmologists, psychologists and other healthcare professionals may need to systematically and comprehensively plan and affect childโs treatment. Genetic counseling is recommended for affected individuals and their families. Psychosocial support for the entire family is essential as well.
Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Early intervention is important in ensuring that affected children reach their highest potential. Services that may be beneficial include special remedial education, speech/language therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy and sensory integration therapy, in which certain sensory activities are undertaken in order to help regulate a childโs response to sensory stimuli.
SMS is a complex genetic condition that affects various areas of health, including behavior, sleep and physical development. While there is still no cure or a specific treatment, regular health evaluations help manage potential issues and support better quality of life for people with SMS. Recommendations for affected people may include;
Additional medical, social and vocational services may be recommended when appropriate.
Prognosis
SMS is highly variable, so it is impossible to generalize about prognosis for individual people. Some affected individuals have been employed and live semi-independently with support from family and friends. Others require constant care and may need to live with family or in a residential facility. As stated above, parents should talk to the physician and medical team about their childโs specific case and overall prognosis.
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For information about clinical trials being conducted at the NIH Clinical Center in Bethesda, MD, contact the NIH Patient Recruitment Office:
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Some current clinical trials also are posted on the following page on the NORD website: https://rarediseases.org/living-with-a-rare-disease/find-clinical-trials/
For information about clinical trials sponsored by private sources, in the main, contact: www.centerwatch.com
For more information about clinical trials conducted in Europe, contact: https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/
TEXTBOOKS
Gropman AL, Smith ACM, Duncan W. Neurologic Aspects of the Smith-Magenis Syndrome. In: Cognitive and Behavioral Abnormalities of Pediatric Disease, Nass RD and Frank Y, editors. Oxford University Press, New York, NY. 2010:231-243.
Smith ACM, Gropman A. Smith Magenis Syndrome. In: Management of Genetic Syndromes 3rd Edition. Suzanne B. Cassidy, Judith E. Allanson (Editors). Wiley-Blackwell, Hoboken, NJ. 2010.
Smith ACM, Finucane B. Smith-Magenis Syndrome. In: NORD Guide to Rare Disorders. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Philadelphia, PA. 2003:254-255.
JOURNAL ARTICLES
Acquaviva F, Sana ME, Della Monica M, Pinelli M, Postorivo D, Fontana P, Falco MT, Nardone AM, Lonardo F, Iascone M, Scarano G. First evidence of SmithโMagenis syndrome in mother and daughter due to a novel RAI mutation. Am J Med Genet Part A 2017;173A:231โ238. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/articles/27683195/
Goh ES, Banwell B, Stavropoulos DJ, Shago M, Yoon G. Mosaic microdeletion of 17p11.2-p12 and duplication of 17q22-24 in a girl with Smith-Magenis phenotype and peripheral neuropathy. Am J Med Genet A. 2014;164:748-752. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24357149
Williams SR, Zies D, Mullegama SV, et al. Smith-Magenis syndrome results in disruption of CLOCK gene transcription and reveals an integral role for RAI1 in the maintenance of circadian rhythmicity. Am J Hum Genet. 2012;90:941-949. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22578325
Hildenbrand HL, Smith ACM. Analysis of the sensory profile in children with Smith-Magenis syndrome. Phys Occup Ther Pediatr. 2012 Feb;32(1):48-65. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21599572
Vieira GH, Rodriguez JD, Boy R, et al. Differential diagnosis of Smith-Magenis syndrome: 1p36 deletion syndrome. Am J Med Genet A. 2011;155A:988-992. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21480478
Thierry V, Ciccone C, Blancato JK, et al. Molecular analysis of the retinoic acid induced 1 gene (RAI1) in patients with suspected Smith-Magenis syndrome without the 17p11.2 deletion. PLoS One. 2011;6:e22861. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3152558/
Laje G, Bernert R, Morse R, Pao M, Smith, ACM. Pharmacological treatment of disruptive behavior in Smith-Magenis syndrome. Am J Med Genet Part C Semin Med Genet. 2010;154C:463-468. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3022344/
Elsea SH, Girirajan S. Smith-Magenis syndrome. Eur J Hum Genet. 2008;16:412-421. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18231123
Gropman AL, Elsea S, Duncan WC Jr., Smith AC. New developments in Smith-Magenis syndrome (del 17p11.2). Curr Opin Neurol. 2007;20:125-134. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17351481
Gropman A, Duncan W. Neurologic and developmental features of the Smith-Magenis syndrome (del 17p11.2). Pediatr Neurol. 2006;34:337-350. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16647992
De Leersnyder H. Inverted rhythm of melatonin secretion in Smith-Magenis syndrome: from symptoms to treatment. Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2006;17:291-298. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16890450
Girirajan S, Elsas LJ II, Devriendt K, Elsea S. RAI1 variations in Smith-Magenis syndrome patients without 17p11.2 deletions. J Med Genet. 2005;42:820-828. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1735950/
INTERNET
Smith ACM, Boyd KE, Brennan C, et al. Smith-Magenis Syndrome. 2001 Oct 22 [Updated 2022 Mar 10]. In: Adam MP, Feldman J, Mirzaa GM, et al., editors. GeneReviewsยฎ [Internet]. Seattle (WA): University of Washington, Seattle; 1993-2024. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1310/ Accessed Nov 19, 2024.
Smith-Magenis Syndrome. Orphanet. Nov 2020. Available at: https://www.orpha.net/consor/cgi-bin/OC_Exp.php?Lng=EN&Expert=819 Accessed Nov 19, 2024.
McKusick VA., ed. Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM). Baltimore. MD: The Johns Hopkins University; Entry No:182290; Last Update: 10/05/2017. Available at: https://omim.org/entry/182290 Accessed Nov 19, 2024.
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The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) has information and resources for patients, caregivers, and families that may be helpful before and after diagnosis of this condition. GARD is a program of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
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View reportOnline Mendelian Inheritance In Man (OMIM) has a summary of published research about this condition and includes references from the medical literature. The summary contains medical and scientific terms, so we encourage you to share and discuss this information with your doctor. OMIM is authored and edited at the McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
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