CASE REPORT
Developmental encephalopathy concomitant with aphasia associated with a pathogenic variant in the GRIN2A gene
 
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1
Department of Paediatrics, Haematology and Paediatric Nephrology, Provincial Specialist Hospital, Częstochowa, Poland
 
2
Department of Clinical Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
 
3
Pediatric Neurology Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
 
 
Submission date: 2025-07-17
 
 
Final revision date: 2026-06-22
 
 
Acceptance date: 2026-06-25
 
 
Online publication date: 2026-08-19
 
 
Publication date: 2026-08-19
 
 
Corresponding author
Anna Bryzik Bryzik   

Department of Paediatrics, Haematology and Paediatric Nephrology, Provincial Specialist Hospital, Częstochowa, Poland
 
 
Pol. Ann. Med. 2026;33:237-244
 
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Introduction:
Mutations in the GRIN gene family, which encode subunits of the NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor, have been increasingly associated with a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders. Among them, GRIN2A mutations play a crucial regulatory role in the receptor's function, affecting synaptic transmission and brain plasticity.

Aim:
This case study presents the clinical and genetic profile of a pediatric patient with a pathogenic GRIN2A mutation, highlighting the associated neurological phenotype, diagnostic process, and treatment approach.

Case study:
Clinical data were collected through neurological assessments, EEG, MRI, and comprehensive genetic testing, including next-generation sequencing (NGS), with confirmation by Sanger sequencing. The patient's symptoms, including developmental delay, epileptic episodes, and behavioral abnormalities, were analyzed in the context of current literature on GRIN-related disorders

Results and discussion:
The identified pathogenic GRIN2A mutation correlated with a neurodevelopmental phenotype characterized by early-onset epilepsy, hypotonia, and intellectual disability.

Conclusions:
The above case highlights the importance of early genetic testing in children with neurodevelopmental disorders and aphasia, as well as co-occurring epilepsy. Understanding the functional impact of specific GRIN2A mutations can guide personalized treatment strategies and contribute to a better characterization of the GRINopathy spectrum.
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