McCune-Albright Syndrome (MAS) is a rare genetic disorder originally characterized as the triad of polyostotic fibrous dysplasia of bone, precocious puberty, and café-au-lait skin pigmentation (1-3). With time other associated endocrinopathies have been recognized, including hyperthyroidism, growth hormone excess, FGF23-mediated phosphate wasting, and hypercortisolism (4, 5).
MAS is caused by an activating mutation in the GNAS gene, which encodes the alpha subunit of the stimulatory G protein involved in G-protein signaling (6, 7). A missense mutation, typically Arg201Cys or Arg201His (
The mutation arises early in embryogenesis and is distributed in a mosaic pattern. The clinical phenotype is therefore highly variable, depending upon the location and timing of the mutation during embryologic development. Skin manifestations are common and are usually present at or shortly after birth. The café-au-lait spots typically have irregular margins giving them a “coast of Maine” appearance, and usually show an association with the midline of the body.
In MAS, fibrous dysplasia of bone typically occurs at several sites (polyostotic), and commonly presents with fracture, deformity and/or bone pain (8). Radiographs show characteristic expansile lesions with a “ground glass” appearance. Craniofacial fibrous dysplasia can be severe in individuals who have pituitary disorders leading to hypersecretion of growth hormone. Treatment can be challenging and should begin as soon as possible.
In girls, precocious puberty is a common initial manifestation, with recurrent ovarian cysts leading to episodes of vaginal bleeding and breast development. Precocious puberty is less common in boys, presenting with penile enlargement, pubic and axillary hair, acne, body odor, and sexual behavior. However, in both girls and boys, there is a high frequency of gonadal pathology (ovarian abnormalities in girls, and testicular abnormalities in boys) (9).