Reviewed July 2007
What is Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome?
Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome is a genetic condition characterized by the dramatic, rapid appearance of aging beginning in childhood. Affected children typically look normal at birth and in early infancy, but then grow more slowly than other children and do not gain weight at the expected rate (failure to thrive). They develop a characteristic facial appearance including prominent eyes, a thin nose with a beaked tip, thin lips, a small chin, and protruding ears. Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome also causes hair loss (alopecia), aged-looking skin, joint abnormalities, and a loss of fat under the skin (subcutaneous fat). This condition does not disrupt intellectual development or the development of motor skills such as sitting, standing, and walking.
People with Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome experience severe hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis) beginning in childhood. This condition greatly increases the chances having a heart attack or stroke at a young age. These serious complications can worsen over time and are life-threatening for affected individuals.
How common is Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome?
This condition is very rare; it is reported to occur in 1 in 4 million newborns worldwide. More than 130 cases have been reported in the scientific literature since the condition was first described in 1886.
What genes are related to Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome?
Mutations in the LMNA gene cause Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome.
The LMNA gene provides instructions for making a protein called lamin A. This protein plays an important role in determining the shape of the nucleus within cells. It is an essential scaffolding (supporting) component of the nuclear envelope, which is the membrane that surrounds the nucleus. Mutations that cause Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome result in the production of an abnormal version of the lamin A protein. The altered protein makes the nuclear envelope unstable and progressively damages the nucleus, making cells more likely to die prematurely. Researchers are working to determine how these changes lead to the characteristic features of Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome.
Read more about the LMNA gene.
How do people inherit Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome?
Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome is considered an autosomal dominant condition, which means one copy of the altered gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the disorder. The condition results from new mutations in the LMNA gene, and almost always occurs in people with no history of the disorder in their family.
Where can I find information about treatment for Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome?
These resources address the management of Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome and may include treatment providers.
You might also find information on treatment of Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome in
Educational resources and Patient support.
Where can I find additional information about Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome?
You may find the following resources about Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome helpful. These materials are written for the general public.
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- Additional NIH Resources - National Institutes of Health
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You may also be interested in these resources, which are designed for healthcare professionals and researchers.
What other names do people use for Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome?
- HGPS
- Hutchinson-Gilford Syndrome
- Progeria
- Progeria of childhood
What if I still have specific questions about Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome?
Where can I find general information about genetic conditions?
The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language.
These links provide additional genetics resources that may be useful.
What glossary definitions help with understanding Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome?
The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for
professional medical care or advice. Users seeking information about
a personal genetic disease, syndrome, or condition should consult with a qualified
healthcare professional.
See How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook.