Idiopathic aplastic anemia
Key points
- Idiopathic aplastic anemia is a failure of the bone marrow to properly form all types of blood cells.
- Idiopathic aplastic anemia is a condition that results from injury to the stem cell, a cell that gives rise to other cell types after it divides.
- Mild cases of aplastic anemia are treated with supportive care.
- Untreated aplastic anemia is an illness that leads to rapid death.
Alternative names
Anemia - idiopathic aplastic
Definition
Idiopathic aplastic anemia is a failure of the bone marrow to properly form all types of blood cells.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Idiopathic aplastic anemia is a condition that results from injury to the stem cell, a cell that gives rise to other cell types after it divides. Consequently, there is a reduction in all cell types - red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets - with this type of anemia, which is called pancytopenia.
The cause of idiopathic aplastic anemia is unknown, but is thought to be an autoimmune process (the body reacting against its own cells). Causes of other types of aplastic anemia may be chemotherapy, radiation therapy, toxins, drugs, pregnancy, congenital disorder, or systemic lupus erythematosus.
Symptoms arise as the consequence of bone marrow failure. Llow red blood cell count (anemia) leads to fatigue and weakness. Low white blood cell count (leukopenia) causes an increased risk of infection. Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) results in bleeding, especially of mucus membranes and skin.
The disease may be acute or chronic, and is almost always progressive. Risk factors are unknown.
Symptoms
- Fatigue
- Pallor
- Shortness of breath on exertion
- Rapid heart rate
- Easy bruising
- Nose bleeds
- Bleeding gums
- Prolonged bleeding
- Frequent or severe infections
- Lymph nodes may be enlarged (rare)
Signs and tests
- Low red blood cells (anemia)
- Low white blood cell count
- Low reticulocyte count (red blood cell precursors)
- Low platelet count
- Bone marrow biopsy shows few blood cells
Treatment
Mild cases of aplastic anemia are treated with supportive care. Blood transfusions and platelet transfusions help correct the abnormal blood counts and relieve some symptoms.
Severe aplastic anemia, as evidenced by very low blood cell counts, is a life-threatening condition. Bone marrow transplant is indicated for severe disease in younger patients.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.