What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Familial Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood
• TEC (Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood)
• Transient Erythroblastopenia

What is Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood? (Definition/Background Information)

• Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood (TEC) affects children between 6 months to 4 years of age, and is characterized by transient anemia
• Most cases of Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood are sporadic in nature, caused by a preceding viral infection
• However, a genetic basis has been discovered as the cause of Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood in 7 families

Who gets Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood is a rare disorder. Typically, the presentation of symptoms occurs between 6 months-4 years of age
• Both males and females may be affected
• Worldwide, individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood? (Predisposing Factors)

• A positive family history may be an important risk factor, since Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood can be inherited
• A viral illness may precede TEC and may be a risk factor for the condition

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood? (Etiology)

• The gene mutation that causes Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood is not currently known
  • There are reports of 7 families with affected siblings, which is indicative of a genetic basis
  • Of the 7 affected families, 2 have reported an affected parent, giving further credence to a genetic basis for Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood
• Most cases of Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood are sporadic, and may be caused by a preceding viral infection, such as a viral upper respiratory infection or chickenpox. Viruses have been found in children with TEC

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood?

The signs and symptoms of Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood may include:

• Transient erythroblastopenia

(Source: Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood; Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) of National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), USA.)

• Pale appearance
• Fatigue
• Lethargy
• Spells of “holding breath”

How is Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood Diagnosed?

Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:

• Complete physical examination
• Thorough medical history evaluation
• Assessment of signs and symptoms
• Laboratory tests
• Imaging studies
• Biopsy studies, if necessary
• Tests to differentiate Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood from Diamond-Blackfan anemia

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood?

The complications of Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood may include:

• Extreme lack of energy and listlessness
• Abnormal blood pressure

Complications may occur with or without treatment, and in some cases, due to treatment also.

How is Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood Treated?

• In most cases, no treatment is necessary for Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood, and affected children recover within a few weeks to 2 months post diagnosis
• In rare cases, red cell transfusion may be required

How can Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood  be Prevented?

Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood may not be preventable, if it is a genetic disorder.

• Taking precautions to avoid viral infections in children may help prevent Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood 
• Active research is currently being performed to explore the possibilities for treatment and prevention of inherited and acquired genetic disorders
• Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with tests and physical examinations are recommended

What is the Prognosis of Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood is good, as most affected children recover completely without need for treatment
• Some affected children may require red blood transfusion for a complete recovery

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rare-disorders/