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Aplastic Anemia

This website was created as a resource to provide aplastic anemia patients and their families with up-to-date information. Specifically, we have the latest information on aplastic anemia (II), its symptoms (III), causes (VI), diagnosis (IV), and treatment (V). We have also collected important information on coping (VIII) with the personal and financial effects of aplastic anemia, which may be difficult to deal with without the proper preparation.

Anemia occurs when blood is low in red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to all parts of your body. Without enough red blood cells, your body can't get all of the oxygen it needs and you feel fatigued.

In aplastic anemia, the bone marrow stops producing enough new blood cells. This means that you have not only a deficit of red blood cells but also a shortage of white blood cells to fight germs and platelets to help blood clot. You're at higher risk of infections and uncontrolled bleeding.

Aplastic anemia can come on suddenly. The illness may be brief or it may linger chronically. The disease has different symptoms depending on which types of blood cells are deficient. Without treatment, it may progress and become fatal. Therefore, it is very important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. The Treatment Options section describes the different types of treatments available and has clinical trial information. In our Medical Financial Aid and Assistance section, we discuss how patients and their families may be helped with medical bills and financial concerns.

Because some cases of aplastic anemia are linked to benzene exposure, see our At Risk Jobs section to find out if you or a loved one has worked in a job associated with benzene poisoning.

benzene
cord blood
bone marrow transplants