Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare inherited condition that affects how the body makes blood cells and repairs damaged DNA. Because this repair system doesn’t work properly, cells build up errors over time, which can lead to low blood counts, causing fatigue, frequent infections, and easy bruising or bleeding.
It often starts in childhood, diagnosed between 2–15 years typically, and may also be linked to short height, skin changes, or bone and organ differences. FA can affect multiple body systems and is known to increase the risk of certain cancers, including leukemia.
The main risk factor for Fanconi anemia is inheriting faulty genes from both parents, especially in families with a history of the condition or consanguineous (close-relative) marriages.
While there is no simple cure, however, early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and proper treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
