Biallelic Mutations in Ubiquitin-Specific Peptidase 53 ( USP53 ) Causing Progressive Intrahepatic Cholestasis. Report of a Case With Review of Literature

Abstract

Whole-exome sequencing studies have recently identified novel genes implicated in normal- or low-GGT pediatric cholestasis including ubiquitin-specific peptidase 53 (USP53). We identified novel biallelic mutations in the USP53 gene in a 7-month-old infant with pruritus and progressive intrahepatic cholestasis. His liver biopsy showed portal and perivenular fibrosis with bland bilirubinostasis. His parents were asymptomatic heterozygous for the same mutation. He is currently on vitamin supplements and cholestyramine and his family has also been counseled for liver transplantation. Our report confirms that patients with biallelic mutation in USP53 develop cholestatic liver disease.