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Blanche P. Alter

Senior Clinician | MD, MPH | Bethesda, MD

Dr. Alter developed an interdisciplinary clinical research program, conducting systematic investigations of cancer in the inherited bone marrow failure syndromes (http://marrowfailure.cancer.gov/). The prototype disorder for this program is Fanconi anemia, in which there is a large excess of unusual cancers that occur at atypically early ages, including myelodysplastic syndrome, acute myeloid leukemia, and cancers of the oral cavity and oropharynx, esophagus, cervix and vulva, and liver.

This project involves active, protocol-driven clinical research. Investigations include surveys to determine the incidence and characteristics of cancer in each of the syndromes; case-control studies to identify additional risk factors and perhaps new cancer pathways; genotype/phenotype correlations with reference to cancer susceptibility; heterozygote surveys with regard to the possible relation between the carrier state and cancer; and biologic studies of the tumors to determine their resemblance to their counterparts in the general population. The patients who have these syndromes comprise a group at high risk of cancer which may be suitable for studies of cancer screening and prevention modalities.

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2025 Research Updates

Research is the answer to one day making FA a treatable, manageable disease. Here, you'll discover the most recent strides in FA research and activities funded by FCF. Every quarter, we'll bring you updates on newly funded grants, ongoing projects, and significant milestones.

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Living With FA, Loving Beyond It: Israel’s Story

Israel endured so much in his short life. But even in the hardest moments, he brought so much light. One of my favorite memories from his transplant journey was how he never went by his real name. The first doctor we saw when he was admitted asked him his name, and Israel replied, “Batman.” From then on, he cycled through names from his favorite movies: Randall, Pascal, and eventually Lewis.

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In Loving Memory of Imroze Marzban Ardeshir

April 15, 1983 – December 27, 2017By Daisy & Marzban Ardeshir The story below was shared by Imroze’s parents, Daisy and Marzban Ardeshir, in remembrance of their daughter’s strength, grace, and enduring spirit. Our second child, Imroze, was diagnosed with...

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