Fanconi anemia

Definition

Fanconi anemia is an inherited disorder characterized by a severe form of anemia and various other physical malformations. Patients with Fanconi anemia are susceptible to various types of cancer.

Description

Fanconi anemia (FA) was first described in 1927 by a Swiss pediatrician named Guido Fanconi. It is a rare, inherited form of aplastic anemia. Aplastic anemia is a life-threatening condition in which a person is unable to produce adequate amounts of red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. Red blood cells serve to carry oxygen to all areas of the body. White blood cells help to fight infection and disease. Platelets are responsible for clotting to help to heal...

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