Stages of Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia is a rare but serious condition in which the bone marrow does not produce enough new blood cells. It can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Aplastic anemia is categorized into four stages, based on the severity of the condition.
Mild Stage
The mild stage of aplastic anemia is characterized by a decrease in red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells. Symptoms may include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, and easy bruising or bleeding. A person with mild aplastic anemia may be treated with medications or may not require treatment at all.
Moderate Stage
In the moderate stage of aplastic anemia, the decrease in red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells is more significant. Symptoms may include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, easy bruising or bleeding, and frequent infections. Treatment may include medications, blood transfusions, and bone marrow transplants.
Severe Stage
The severe stage of aplastic anemia is associated with a significant decrease in red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells. Symptoms may include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, easy bruising or bleeding, frequent infections, and an enlarged spleen. Treatment may include medications, blood transfusions, and bone marrow transplants.
Very Severe Stage
The very severe stage of aplastic anemia is associated with a severe decrease in red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells. Symptoms may include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, easy bruising or bleeding, frequent infections, an enlarged spleen, and heart failure. Treatment may include medications, blood transfusions, and bone marrow transplants.