Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome: new perspectives

Br J Ophthalmol. 2012 Mar;96(3):318-22. doi: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2011-300801. Epub 2011 Dec 23.

Abstract

Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome is a genetic disease affecting multiple organ systems. In the eye, this condition manifests with varying degrees of anterior segment dysgenesis and carries a high risk of glaucoma. Other associated systemic issues include cardiovascular outflow tract malformations, craniofacial abnormalities and pituitary abnormalities, which can result in severe endocrinological sequelae. Recent advances in molecular genetics have identified two major genes, PITX2 and FOXC1, demonstrating a wide spectrum of mutations, which aids in the molecular diagnosis of the disease, although evidence exists to implicate other loci in this condition. The management of individuals affected by Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome requires a multidisciplinary approach and would include dedicated surveillance and management of glaucoma, sensorineural hearing loss, and cardiac, endocrinological, craniofacial and orthopaedic abnormalities.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anterior Eye Segment / abnormalities*
  • Eye Abnormalities / etiology*
  • Eye Diseases, Hereditary
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / genetics
  • Homeobox Protein PITX2
  • Homeodomain Proteins / genetics
  • Humans
  • Transcription Factors / genetics

Substances

  • FOXC1 protein, human
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors
  • Homeodomain Proteins
  • Transcription Factors

Supplementary concepts

  • Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome