Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome

Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome
Other namesSLOS, or 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase deficiency
Child with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome
SpecialtyMedical genetics 
Usual onsetPresent at birth
Frequency1 in 20,000 to 1 in 60,000

Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome is an inborn error of cholesterol synthesis. It is an autosomal recessive, multiple malformation syndrome caused by a mutation in the enzyme 7-Dehydrocholesterol reductase encoded by the DHCR7 gene. It causes a broad spectrum of effects, ranging from mild intellectual disability and behavioural problems to lethal malformations.