Molecular screening test in familial forms of cerebral cavernous malformation: the impact of the Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification approach.

Object The purpose of this study was to underline the effectiveness of molecular analysis in cerebral cavernous angioma, with special attention to the familial forms. Methods Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification analysis integrates the consecutive sequence analysis of the 3 genes (Krit1/CCM1, MGC4607/CCM2, and PDCD10/CCM3) known to be responsible for cerebral cavernous malformation lesions. Results The Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification analysis revealed a new mutation, a heterozygous exon 9/10 deletion of Krit1, in the proband and in all affected family members. Conclusions The identification of the molecular defect allows physicians to screen family members at risk and to identify affected individuals before the onset of clinical symptoms caused by the presence of lesions.