Rare Presentation of Heterozygous PCSK1 Deficiency in an Adolescent Male.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-27-2026

Publication Title

Case reports in pediatrics

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 1 (PCSK1) is an enzyme involved in processing prohormones into active peptides. PCSK1 deficiency is a rare genetic condition in which the homozygous presentation has been documented to cause diarrhea during infancy, as well as childhood obesity, high levels of proinsulin, and diverse endocrine abnormalities.

CASE DESCRIPTION: An eleven-year-old male was evaluated in the pediatric cardiology clinic for hypertriglyceridemia and rapid weight gain. He had recently been diagnosed with heterozygous PCSK1 deficiency, defined as c.661A > G, which is predicted to result in the amino acid substitution p.Asn221Asp. The patient reported regular hyperphagia to the point of nausea, with a diet of processed and sugary foods. Past medical history included obstructive sleep apnea and migraines. Physical examination was unremarkable aside from severe obesity (BMI 39.7 kg/m

DISCUSSION: This case of a heterozygous PCSK1 variant may demonstrate an association between this variant and the patient's clinical presentation, possibly expanding the known clinical spectrum of the disorder beyond the previously reported presentations in homozygous cases. Our case may show how heterozygous presentations with this variant of PCSK1 deficiency demonstrate a different presentation from the homozygous phenotype in younger patients. This patient shows that PCSK1 abnormalities could have an association with individuals who have hyperphagia and significant obesity, but normal HbA1c and LDL levels. Additional studies could be considered to evaluate prevalence in the population, long-term outcomes, and targeted therapies.

Volume

2026

First Page

3460735

DOI

10.1155/crpe/3460735

ISSN

2090-6803

PubMed ID

41768936

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