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Living with DeSanto-Shinawi syndrome due to WAC point mutation

A rare genetic condition linked to the WAC gene, with developmental delay, distinct facial features, and behavior and digestion differences.

Understanding DeSanto-Shinawi syndrome due to WAC point mutation

DeSanto-Shinawi syndrome due to a WAC point mutation is a rare genetic condition that causes global developmental delay and distinct facial features.

It starts in infancy or early childhood. Facial features include a broad forehead, a flat nasal bridge with a round tip, and deep-set eyes. For most people it also affects digestion, sight, and behavior.

Signs & symptoms

Symptoms vary from person to person. GARD lists these among the most common:

  • Developmental delay
  • Distinct facial features
  • Constipation
  • Crossed eyes (strabismus)
  • Anxiety
  • ADHD and behavior differences

Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.

Diagnosis

  1. Talk with your doctor

    Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.

  2. See a specialist

    Specialists who may be involved include brain and nervous system specialists and genetic specialists.

  3. Consider genetic testing

    Changes in WAC are linked to this condition. Genetic testing and counseling can help confirm a diagnosis and explain what it means for your family.

Care & treatment

Care team
Brain and nervous system specialists (neurologists); Genetic specialists (geneticists)
Expert care
Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
Treatment
GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
Research
Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.

General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.

Everyday life

Living with a rare condition is easier with support.

  • Connect with Simons Searchlight
  • Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
  • Ask about patient registries that help research
  • Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Bring these questions to your next doctor visit
Can genetic testing of the WAC gene help our family?
How should vision and digestion be monitored?
Which therapies can support development and behavior?

Quick facts

Symptoms usually startInfant and as a Child
InheritanceAutosomal Dominant
GenesWAC

Changes in the WAC gene cause this condition. It is autosomal dominant, so a changed copy of the gene from one parent can be enough.

GeneticNeurological

Also known as: dessh; developmental delay, behavioral abnormalities, facial dysmorphism, and ocular abnormalities; facial dysmorphism-developmental delay-behavioral abnormalities syndrome due to wac point mutation

Patient organizations

Source: NIH GARD · DeSanto-Shinawi syndrome due to WAC point mutationGARD ID 17839 · GARD page updated September 2026 · Plain-language summary by Know Rare; editorial review pending. General information, not medical advice.

You are more than your diagnosis

Perspectives from people navigating life with DeSanto-Shinawi syndrome due to WAC point mutation.

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