Growth patterns in individuals with CDKL5 deficiency disorder

AIM: To compare growth in individuals with cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) deficiency disorder with population norms and to investigate the effect of gastrostomy on growth.

METHOD: The longitudinal study included 353 individuals from the International CDKL5 Disorder Database with any anthropometric measurement in baseline and/or follow-up questionnaires. The British 1990 growth reference was used to determine the age- and sex-standardized z-score. Repeated cross-sectional data were fitted using a Gaussian linear regression model with generalized estimating equations.

RESULTS: All growth parameters were below the general population norm (mean z-scores: weight - 0.97, height - 0.65, body mass index [BMI] -0.65, head circumference - 2.12). The disparity was particularly pronounced for all anthropometric measurements after 4 years of age except for BMI. Moreover, individuals with gastrostomy placement were shown to have a larger decrease than those without.

INTERPRETATION: In addition to weight, height, and BMI, head circumference was also compromised in this disorder. Microcephaly could be considered a helpful diagnostic feature, especially in adults. Any benefit of gastrostomy on weight and BMI was mainly seen in the early years.