PTEN Hamartoma Tumor Syndrome | Symptoms & Causes
What are the symptoms of PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome?
Symptoms of PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome (PHTS) can vary from person to person. Common symptoms may include:
An increased risk for certain cancers, including cancer of the:
Benign (non-cancerous) tumors on the:
- breast
- thyroid
- uterus
- gastrointestinal tract
Vascular abnormalities including:
Growths on the skin including:
- lipomas (fatty lesions)
- acral keratoses (raised lesions on the hands and feet)
- papillomas (smooth raised lesions)
- trichilemmomas (hair follicle lesions)
- fibromas (overgrowths affecting skin and connective tissue)
- penile freckling
Neurological and neurodevelopmental problems, including:
- macrocephaly (enlarged head size)
- autism spectrum disorder
- intellectual disability
- developmental delays
What causes PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome?
PHTS results from a change in the PTEN gene. The PTEN gene is a tumor suppressor that helps keep cell growth in check. When there is a defect in the PTEN gene, cell growth can go unchecked, causing tumors and an increased cancer risk.
PTEN Hamartoma Tumor Syndrome | Diagnosis & Treatments
How is PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome diagnosed?
Your child may have many tests before receiving a diagnosis of PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome (PHTS). The starting point is a careful history and physical examination. Additional studies may include a brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Genetic testing is an important part of the evaluation. You child may need a blood test to see if he or she has a change in the PTEN gene.
Children who have any symptoms associated with PHTS should consider further clinical evaluation and genetic testing.
What are the treatment options for PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome?
Treatment for PHTS is centered on treating the symptoms and careful screening for cancer. Children with PTEN mutations should have cancer screenings at the time of diagnosis. This will help healthcare providers detect any tumors at the earliest, most treatable stages.
Suggested screenings for children under age 18 include:
- yearly thyroid ultrasound starting at the time of first diagnosis
- yearly skin check with physical examination
- neurodevelopmental evaluation as needed
How we care for PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome
The Boston Children’s Hospital Neurogenetics Program provides diagnosis and treatment for children with all forms of PHTS.
Our team of specialists has a deep knowledge of PHTS and can provide specialty care for the many conditions related to the condition, including autism, developmental delay, gastrointestinal issues, skin conditions, and cancer.
In addition, the Translational Neuroscience Center (TNC) at Boston Children’s is at the forefront of research in rare neurological and genetic conditions, including PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome.
