Comparative study of chronological, bone, and dental age in Fanconi's anemia

Fanconi's anemia (FA) is a genetic autosomal recessive disorder, characterized by progressive bone marrow failure, congenital abnormalities, growth retardation, and predisposition to leukemia and solid tumors. The purpose of this study was to compare the chronological age (CA), bone age (BA), and dental age (DA) of FA patients and to determine whether the therapy received influenced the BA or DA. Thirty FA patients were evaluated and divided into three groups according to the therapy received. Hand and wrist radiographs for BA estimation and panoramic radiographs for DA estimation were taken. Statistical analysis demonstrated that mean values for CA, BA, and DA were 8.91 years old, 7.90 years old, and 7.75 years old, respectively, indicating low mean values for BA and DA in comparison with CA (P<0.01). The therapy given to the patient did not influence the BA or DA. BA and DA are delayed and are not influenced by the therapy given.