Aase syndrome

Alternative Names: Aase-Smith syndrome; Hypoplastic anemia/Triphalangeal thumb syndrome

Aase syndrome is a rare disorder that involves anemia and certain joint and skeletal deformities.

Causes of Aase syndrome

Most cases of Aase syndrome occur without a known reason and are not passed down through families (inherited). However, some cases have been shown to be inherited.

The anemia in Aase syndrome is caused by poor development of the bone marrow, which is where blood cells are formed.

Aase syndrome Symptoms

• Absent or small knuckles
• Cleft palate
• Decreased skin creases at finger joints
• Deformed ears
• Droopy eyelids
• Inability to fully extend the joints from birth (contracture deformity)
• Narrow shoulders
• Pale skin
• Triple-jointed thumbs

Tests and Exams

The doctor will perform a physical exam. Tests that may be done include:

• Bone marrow biopsy
• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Echocardiogram
• X-rays

Treatment of Aase syndrome

Treatment may involve blood transfusions in the first year of life to treat anemia.

A steroid medication called prednisone has also been used to treat anemia associated with Aase syndrome. However, it should only be used after reviewing the benefits and risks with a doctor who has experience treating anemias.

A bone marrow transplant may be necessary if other treatment fails.

Prognosis (Outlook)

The anemia tends to improve with age.

Potential Complications

Complications related to anemia include:

• Fatigue
• Decreased oxygen in the blood
• Weakness

Heart problems can lead to a variety of complications, depending on the specific defect.

Severe cases of Aase syndrome have been associated with stillbirth or early death.

Prevention of Aase syndrome

Genetic counseling is recommended if you have a family history of this syndrome and wish to become pregnant.

Review Date: 8/4/2011
Reviewed By: Chad Haldeman-Englert, MD, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Section on Medical Genetics, Winston-Salem, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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