Can Sideroblastic Anemia Be Inherited?

Sideroblastic anemia can be caused by hereditary factors, acquired as part of an underlying condition or exposure to drugs or toxins , or the cause may be unknown (idiopathic). Hereditary causes of sideroblastic anemia include: Mutations in the ALAS2, ABCB7, SCL19A2, GLRX5, and PSU1 genes. Pearson syndrome.

What is the most likely cause of sideroblastic anemia?

Causes include excessive alcohol use (the most common cause of sideroblastic anemia), pyridoxine deficiency (vitamin B6 is the cofactor in the first step of heme synthesis), lead poisoning and copper deficiency.

Is sideroblastic anemia fatal?

Even without transfusions, patients with sideroblastic anemia are prone to develop iron overload. Transfusion in sideroblastic anemia has been known to worsen iron overload and lead to secondary hemochromatosis and cirrhosis, which can be fatal.