Description

Aplastic anemia is a rare but serious blood disorder where the bone marrow fails to produce enough blood cells, including: Red blood cells (carry oxygen) White blood cells (fight infections) Platelets (help with blood clotting) This condition can lead to fatigue, infections, and uncontrolled bleeding. Causes of Aplastic Anemia: Autoimmune Reaction – Body attacks its own bone marrow (most common cause). Medications – e.g., chemotherapy, certain antibiotics, NSAIDs. Toxins – e.g., benzene, pesticides, arsenic. Radiation/Chemotherapy – Used for cancer treatment. Viral Infections – e.g., hepatitis, HIV, EBV, parvovirus B19. Inherited Disorders – e.g., Fanconi anemia (seen in children). Idiopathic – No identifiable cause (most common cause). Symptoms of Aplastic Anemia: Due to pancytopenia (deficiency of all 3 blood cell types): Low red cells (anemia): Fatigue Pale skin Shortness of breath Low white cells (leukopenia): Frequent infections Fever Low platelets (thrombocytopenia): Easy bruising Bleeding gums or nose Prolonged bleeding from cuts Diagnosis: Complete Blood Count (CBC): Shows low red cells, white cells, and platelets Bone Marrow Biopsy: Shows hypocellular marrow (empty or fatty bone marrow) Other tests: Viral screening (hepatitis, HIV) Genetic testing like Next generation sequencing (for inherited causes) Blood tests for autoimmune markers Treatment: Depends on severity and cause: 🩺 Supportive Care: Blood transfusions (RBCs, platelets) Antibiotics for infections 💉 Medications: Immunosuppressants (e.g., antithymocyte globulin - ATG, cyclosporine) Steroids Eltrombopag/Romiplostim (stimulates bone marrow) 🧬 Curative Treatments: Bone marrow or stem cell transplant Best option for young patients with a matched donor

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