Aplastic anemia is a rare and serious condition in which the body's bone marrow does not produce enough new blood cells. As a result, the body is unable to fight off infections, as it has an insufficient number of white blood cells. Additionally, there can be an insufficient number of red blood cells, leading to anemia. Iron levels in aplastic anemia can be higher than normal because of the decreased production of red blood cells.
What Causes Iron Levels to Increase?
There are several potential causes that can lead to an increase in iron levels in aplastic anemia. One possible cause is an increased absorption of iron in the intestines. This can occur when there is an insufficient production of red blood cells, as the body is unable to properly utilize the iron that is present in the diet. Another possible cause is the breakdown of red blood cells, which can lead to an increase in the amount of iron that is released into the bloodstream.
How Can Iron Levels Be Managed?
Treating aplastic anemia often involves the use of medications to stimulate the production of new blood cells. These medications can help to reduce the amount of iron that is present in the bloodstream, as they encourage the body to use the iron more efficiently. Additionally, reducing the amount of iron-rich foods in the diet can help to reduce the amount of iron that is absorbed in the intestines. In some cases, iron chelation therapy may also be used to reduce the amount of iron in the body.