Aplastic anemia is a rare, life-threatening condition in which the body's bone marrow does not produce enough new blood cells. While there is no cure for aplastic anemia, treatments can help manage symptoms and extend life expectancy.
Symptoms of Aplastic Anemia
The most common symptoms of aplastic anemia are fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, rapid heart rate, and easy bruising and bleeding. Other symptoms may include frequent infections, dizziness, cold hands and feet, headaches, and chest pain.
Diagnosis of Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia is diagnosed through a physical exam, blood tests, and bone marrow biopsy. Blood tests measure the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the body. A bone marrow biopsy is used to check the bone marrow for healthy new cells.
Treatment of Aplastic Anemia
The main treatment for aplastic anemia is immunosuppressive therapy, which uses drugs to suppress the immune system and allow the bone marrow to produce new blood cells. Other treatments may include blood transfusions, bone marrow transplants, and medications to treat infections and reduce the risk of bleeding.
Living with Aplastic Anemia
The outlook for people with aplastic anemia varies depending on the severity of the condition, the age of the person, and the response to treatment. In general, people with aplastic anemia can live a long and healthy life with proper treatment and care.