Defects in SPINK5 are the cause of Netherton syndrome (NS). SPINK5 encode the serine protease inhibitor LEKTI and has a role in epidermal barrier function and immunity. LEKTI is involved in skin disorder or hair morphogenesis and has also a specific role in thymus. NS is a severe autosomal recessive disorder, but cases of X-linked have been described also. It has been observed almost only in females.
Alternative names
NS
Trichorrhexis Invaginata
Netherton disease
Bamboo Hair
Classification
- Other well-defined immunodeficiency syndromes? Immunodeficiency with dermatological defects
Inheritance
Autosomal recessive / X-linked