Diamond-Blackfan anemia(DBA)
Also known as: Diamond-Blackfan-Anämie · Congenital hypoplastic anemia · Congenital erythroid hypoplasia · Diamond-Blackfan syndrome
Overview
What it is
Diamond-Blackfan anemia is a severe disorder of the bone marrow, which is the tissue inside bones where blood cells are produced. In affected dogs, the bone marrow fails to create enough red blood cells, the cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. This failure results in a profound lack of red blood cells, a condition known as severe anemia.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear very early in puppyhood, often within the first few weeks of life. Owners will notice extreme weakness, lethargy, pale gums, and developmental delays or slow growth.
Treatment
The condition is incurable and requires lifelong medical management, including regular blood transfusions or immunosuppressive medications. Lifetime treatment costs are high, typically ranging from €5,000 to €25,000.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Diamond-Blackfan anemia?
Diamond-Blackfan anemia is a severe disorder of the bone marrow, which is the tissue inside bones where blood cells are produced. In affected dogs, the bone marrow fails to create enough red blood cells, the cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. This failure results in a profound lack of red blood cells, a condition known as severe anemia.
How is Diamond-Blackfan anemia tested?
Various clinical and genetic tests are used depending on the breed and presentation.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.