Phenotypic association of 15q11.2 CNVs of the region of breakpoints 1-2 (BP1-BP2) in a large cohort of samples referred for genetic diagnosis

In view of conflicting reports on the pathogenicity of 15q11.2 CNVs of the breakpoints 1-2 (BP1-BP2) region and lack of association with a specific phenotype, we collected phenotypic data on 51,462 patients referred for genetic testing at two centers (Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC and Baylor Genetics Laboratories, Baylor College of Medicine). Using array CGH, 262 patients with deletions and 215 with duplications were identified and tested for their association with four phenotypes (developmental delay, dysmorphic features, autism group of disorders, and epilepsy/seizures). Only association of deletions with dysmorphic features was observed (P = 0.013) with low penetrance (3.8%). Our results, viewed in the context of other reports suggesting the lack of a clear phenotypic outcome, underscore the need for detailed phenotypic studies to better understand the pathogenicity of 15q11.2 (BP1-BP2) CNVs.