A Review of Diamond-Blackfan Anemia: Current Evidence on Involved Genes and Treatment Modalities

Abstract

Diamond-Blackfan anemia (DBA) is a congenital cause of bone marrow failure predominantly involving the erythroid cell line, with occasional impact on other cell lines. In the vast majority of cases, it is diagnosed by one year of age. We looked at the existing literature on the disease presentation along with established as well as upcoming treatment options. Numerous genes have been identified and extensively studied in the context of their part in the pathogenesis of DBA. Treatment revolves around the use of steroids and regular blood transfusions, with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation reserved for steroid-resistant cases. Newer modalities such as gene therapy, l-leucine, sotatercept, trifluoperazine, SMER28, and danazol are also concisely discussed. The purpose of this article is to review the previous literature on DBA and weigh the role of newer therapeutic agents.