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Fragile X-associated disorders caused by the premutation of the FMR1 gene, includes the fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). FXTAS affects more than 40% of premutation males over the age of 50 and 75% over the age of 80. FMR1 molecular analysis was done using PCR and confirmed by Southern Blot. Three premutation males were diagnosed FXTAS using quantification based on the standard neurological examination. Cognitive impairment was assessed using Raven and WAIS-R test. MRI was done to identify the middle cerebellar peduncle (MCP) sign, white matter disease and/or cerebral atrophy. Three cases of FXTAS are identified, of five individuals older than 50 years in one family tree two met criteria for definite FXTAS and the third with sub-clinical symptoms, although cognitive and radiological criteria are met. These cases are the first identified FXTAS cases in rural Indonesia. In addition with lack of routine medical follow-up, complications of FXTAS, such as hypertension may go unrecognized and untreated, which may further exacerbate the central nervous system (CNS) findings of FXTAS., (© 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.)

Genetic factors play a significant role in the etiology of intellectual disability (ID). The goal of this study was to identify microscopically visible chromosomal abnormalities in an Indonesian ID population and to determine their frequency, pattern, and clinical features. A total of 527 intellectually disabled individuals from special schools and institutions in 4 different areas on Java Island, Indonesia, were screened for cytogenetic abnormalities. Additional analyses were carried out for verification or further characterization by using fluorescence in situ hybridization, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification, or analysis of the FMR1 promoter CGG(n) repeat. Of the 527 individuals with ID, chromosomal abnormalities were found in 87 (16.5%). Trisomy 21 was the major chromosomal abnormality, identified in 74 patients (14%). Other chromosome abnormalities included 8 X-chromosomal and 5 autosomal aberrations. Details on chromosome aberrations and confirmation analyses are discussed. This study shows that chromosomal abnormalities are an important cause of ID in Indonesia. Cytogenetic analysis is important for an adequate diagnosis in patients and subsequent genetic counseling for their families, especially in developing countries with limited facilities, such as Indonesia.