Question: How many people are affected by Diamond-Blackfan anemia ?
Answer: Diamond-Blackfan anemia affects approximately 5 to 7 per million liveborn infants worldwide.
Source: GHR

Question: What are the genetic changes related to Diamond-Blackfan anemia ?
Answer: Diamond-Blackfan anemia can be caused by mutations in the RPL5, RPL11, RPL35A, RPS7, RPS10, RPS17, RPS19, RPS24, and RPS26 genes. These genes provide instructions for making several of the approximately 80 different ribosomal proteins, which are components of cellular structures called ribosomes. Ribosomes process the cell's genetic instructions to create proteins. Each ribosome is made up of two parts (subunits) called the large and small subunits. The RPL5, RPL11, and RPL35A genes provide instructions for making ribosomal proteins that are among those found in the large subunit. The ribosomal proteins produced from the RPS7, RPS10, RPS17, RPS19, RPS24, and RPS26 genes are among those found in the small subunit. The specific functions of each ribosomal protein within these subunits are unclear. Some ribosomal proteins are involved in the assembly or stability of ribosomes. Others help carry out the ribosome's main function of building new proteins. Studies suggest that some ribosomal proteins may have other functions, such as participating in chemical signaling pathways within the cell, regulating cell division, and controlling the self-destruction of cells (apoptosis). Mutations in any of the genes listed above are believed to affect the stability or function of the ribosomal proteins. Studies indicate that a shortage of functioning ribosomal proteins may increase the self-destruction of blood-forming cells in the bone marrow, resulting in anemia. Abnormal regulation of cell division or inappropriate triggering of apoptosis may contribute to the other health problems that affect some people with Diamond-Blackfan anemia. Approximately 25 percent of individuals with Diamond-Blackfan anemia have identified mutations in the RPS19 gene. About another 25 to 35 percent of individuals with this disorder have identified mutations in the RPL5, RPL11, RPL35A, RPS7, RPS10, RPS17, RPS24, or RPS26 genes. In the remaining 40 to 50 percent of cases, the cause of the condition is unknown. Researchers suspect that other genes may also be associated with Diamond-Blackfan anemia.
Source: GHR

Question: Is Diamond-Blackfan anemia inherited ?
Answer: This condition is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, which means one copy of the altered gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the disorder. In approximately 45 percent of cases, an affected person inherits the mutation from one affected parent. The remaining cases result from new mutations in the gene and occur in people with no history of the disorder in their family.
Source: GHR

Question: What are the treatments for Diamond-Blackfan anemia ?
Answer: These resources address the diagnosis or management of Diamond-Blackfan anemia: - Gene Review: Gene Review: Diamond-Blackfan Anemia - Genetic Testing Registry: Aase syndrome - Genetic Testing Registry: Diamond-Blackfan anemia - Genetic Testing Registry: Diamond-Blackfan anemia 10 - Genetic Testing Registry: Diamond-Blackfan anemia 2 - Genetic Testing Registry: Diamond-Blackfan anemia 3 - Genetic Testing Registry: Diamond-Blackfan anemia 4 - Genetic Testing Registry: Diamond-Blackfan anemia 5 - Genetic Testing Registry: Diamond-Blackfan anemia 7 - Genetic Testing Registry: Diamond-Blackfan anemia 8 - Genetic Testing Registry: Diamond-Blackfan anemia 9 These resources from MedlinePlus offer information about the diagnosis and management of various health conditions: - Diagnostic Tests - Drug Therapy - Surgery and Rehabilitation - Genetic Counseling - Palliative Care
Source: GHR