Fanconi anemia

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Fanconi anemia

Fanconi anemia is an inherited blood disorder that causes a decreased number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets (pancytopenia), birth defects, and an increased risk for cancer. The disease may also cause problems with the heart or kidneys and abnormalities of the arms and legs.

Children and adults with Fanconi anemia usually have short stature, and other growth measurements may also be below normal. Other common problems include bleeding episodes and easy bruising, hormonal problems, and infertility.

Fanconi anemia is usually diagnosed during childhood, and many children with this disease do not survive beyond young adulthood.

There is no treatment for the underlying cause of Fanconi anemia. Genetic testing is recommended to identify carriers of the disease and help guide decisions about having children.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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