Neonatal manifestations of inherited bone marrow failure syndromes
Payal P Khincha1, Sharon A Savage1
1Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
Insights
Inherited bone marrow failure syndromes (IBMFS) are rare genetic disorders presenting in newborns with hematological issues and physical abnormalities. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing complications like cancer and for genetic counseling.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Hematology
- Genetics
Background:
- Inherited bone marrow failure syndromes (IBMFS) are rare genetic disorders with significant neonatal manifestations.
- These syndromes can lead to hematological and non-hematological issues, increasing the risk of cancer later in life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of early detection and diagnosis of IBMFS in neonates.
- To emphasize the need for comprehensive medical surveillance and genetic counseling for affected families.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations and diagnostic considerations for IBMFS in neonates.
- Emphasis on the role of family history and physical examination in identifying potential cases.
Main Results:
- IBMFS can present with cytopenias or congenital abnormalities, progressing to pancytopenia.
- Timely diagnosis facilitates appropriate long-term management and surveillance.
Conclusions:
- Early identification of IBMFS is critical for patient outcomes and cancer risk management.
- Genetic counseling is essential for families to understand recurrence risks and family planning.
Abstract:
The inherited bone marrow failure syndromes (IBMFS) are a rare yet clinically important cause of neonatal hematological and non-hematological manifestations. Many of these syndromes, such as Fanconi anemia, dyskeratosis congenita and Diamond-Blackfan anemia, confer risks of multiple medical complications later in life, including an increased risk of cancer. Some IBMFS may present with cytopenias in the neonatal period whereas others may present only with congenital physical abnormalities and progress to pancytopenia later in life. A thorough family history and detailed physical examination are integral to the work-up of any neonate in whom there is a high index of suspicion for an IBMFS. Correct detection and diagnosis of these disorders is important for appropriate long-term medical surveillance and counseling not only for the patient but also for appropriate genetic counselling of their families regarding recurrence risks in future children and generations.
Related Concept Videos
Bone Marrow Sampling and Transplants
The transplant begins with high doses of chemotherapy and radiation treatment, which aim to destroy...
Inborn Errors of Metabolism
Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
Bone Disorders
Bone deposition is also affected by the levels of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone that promote osteoblast activity and bone matrix synthesis. When the level of these hormones decreases due to aging, it causes a reduction in bone deposition. As a result, bone resorption by osteoclasts...
Overview of Hematopoiesis
Developmental Phases of Hematopoiesis
Initially, HSCs are formed in the embryonic yolk sac, a critical site for early blood cell production. These stem cells subsequently migrate to other...
Disorders of Erythrocytes
Erythrocyte disorders can be broadly categorized into two main types: anemic and polycythemic conditions.
A low oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood due to the loss, lower production, or destruction of erythrocytes is termed anemia. Hemorrhagic anemia, for example, occurs when bleeding from an external wound or internal ulcer reduces erythrocyte counts.
On the other...


