Megalencephaly Capillary Malformation Polymicrogyria Syndrome (MCAP) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by abnormal brain development and physical features. It is caused by mutations in the PIK3CA gene. MCAP syndrome is generally not inherited from parents, but rather occurs as a result of a de novo (spontaneous) mutation in the affected individual's DNA. Therefore, the risk of passing on MCAP syndrome to offspring is extremely low.
Megalencephaly Capillary Malformation Polymicrogyria Syndrome (MCAP) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of the brain and blood vessels. It is characterized by an abnormally large brain (megalencephaly), visible malformations of the skin (capillary malformations), and abnormal folding of the brain's surface (polymicrogyria).
MCAP is caused by mutations in the PIK3CA gene, which provides instructions for making a protein involved in cell growth and division. These mutations occur randomly and are not inherited from parents. They are known as somatic mutations, meaning they are present only in certain cells of the body and are not passed on to future generations.
Although MCAP is not hereditary in the traditional sense, individuals with MCAP can pass on the condition to their children through a process called germline mosaicism. Germline mosaicism occurs when the genetic mutation is present in the parent's egg or sperm cells, but not in their other cells. This means that the parent may not show any signs of MCAP themselves, but can still pass on the mutation to their children.
It is important for individuals with MCAP or a family history of MCAP to consult with a genetic counselor to understand the risk of passing on the condition. Genetic testing can help determine if a parent carries the mutation and provide information about the likelihood of their children inheriting MCAP.