Perrault Syndrome

A genetic disorder leading to congenital sensorineural deafness with ovarian dysgenesis. Right bundle branch block and mental retardation are also features.

XX-type Gonadal Dysgenesis with Deafness; Ovarian Dysgenesis with Sensorineural Deafness.

First described by M. Perrault in 1951.

Rare; only 11 families (28 persons) have been described in the literature. However, it has been suggested that this medical entity might not be so uncommon, most cases being unrecognized.

Autosomal recessive with gonadal dysgenesis and neurosensory hearing loss in females but only isolated neurosensory hearing loss in brothers.

Female patient with gonadal dysgenesis and severe neurosensory hearing loss. There may be developmental delay, with the hearing loss diagnosed during the toddler years. Cognitive function may be impaired. Progressive nervous system involvement has been observed. It includes severe sensory and motor neuropathy. Abnormal neurologic findings and signs of cerebellar dysfunction are common (ataxia, hypotonia, abnormal extraocular muscle movement, and chorea). Touch and proprioception are normal. Secondary sexual development is absent in the females and primary amenorrhea may be a presenting complaint. In conjunction with gonadal dysgenesis and deafness, there have been additional reports of patients having short stature, nystagmus, limited extraocular movement, and pes equinovarus.

Document neurological abnormalities and assess adequacy of respiratory muscle function. Obtain an ECG to eliminate the presence of a right bundle branch block. Preoperative sedation is contraindicated in case of preexisting hypotonia.

There are no previous reports of anesthesia in this group of patients. However, special considerations must be given to the neurological dysfunction and the presence of right bundle branch block.

The choice of muscle relaxant should take into account the preexisting hypotonia. Special attention to anesthetic medication with negative inotropic effects.