Oesophageal atresia usually occurs without any genetic background. Three cases associated with Fanconi's anaemia are reported. One neonate had growth retardation and numerous malformations including oesophageal atresia and four other components of the VACTERL association. In the two others, oesophageal atresia was isolated. In patients with such malformations an early diagnosis of Fanconi's anaemia may have important genetic and therapeutic implications.