NLRC4 GOF Mutations, a Challenging Diagnosis from Neonatal Age to Adulthood

The NLRC4 inflammasome is part of the human immune innate system. Its activation leads to the cleavage of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1 beta and IL-18, promoting inflammation. NLRC4 gain-of-function (GOF) mutations have been associated with early-onset recurrent fever, recurrent macrophagic activation syndrome and enterocolitis. Herein, we describe two new patients with NLRC4 mutations. The first case presented with recurrent fever and vasoplegic syndrome, gut symptoms and urticarial rashes initially misdiagnosed as a severe protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome. The second case had recurrent macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) and shock, suggesting severe infection. We identified two NLRC4 mutations, on exon 4, within the nucleotide-binding protein domain (NBD). After a systematic review of NLRC4 GOF mutations, we highlight the wide spectrum of this disease with a limited genotype-phenotype correlation. Vasoplegic shock was only reported in patients with mutation in the NBD. Diagnosing this new entity combined with gastrointestinal symptoms and vasoplegic shocks is challenging. It mimics severe allergic reaction or sepsis. The plasma IL-18 level and genetic screening are instrumental to make a final diagnosis.

Automated summary

NLRC4 inflammasome, a part of human innate immune system, is associated with diverse clinical manifestations and limited genotype-phenotype correlations. Patients may present with gastrointestinal symptoms and vasoplegic shock, requiring plasma IL-18 level and genetic screening for final diagnosis.