Whole exome sequencing identified a heterozygous KCNJ2 missense variant underlying autosomal dominant familial hypokalemic periodic paralysis in a Pakistani family

Abstract

Abstract Background Familial hypokalemic periodi9c paralysis (hypoKPP) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by episodic paralytic attacks caused by fall in blood potassium. CACNA1S, SCN4A or KCNJ2 variants can cause hypoKPP. Case presentation We investigated a Pakistani family affected with autosomal dominant familial hypoKPP through whole exome sequencing (WES). A heterozygous KCNJ2 missense variant c.919A\u2009>\u2009G was found segregating with the disease phenotype in the family. Conclusions The KCNJ2 missense variant is the likely cause of the disorder in the affected family. The finding should help improve antenatal screening and genetic counselling of this family.