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Aplastic Anemia
Pronunciation
Definition 1
A condition in which the bone marrow is unable to produce blood cells. (NCI Dictionary)
Definition 2
Anemia resulting from bone marrow failure (aplastic or hypoplastic bone marrow). The production of erythroblasts and red cells is markedly decreased, and it may be associated with decreased production of granulocytes (granulocytopenia) and platelets (thrombocytopenia) as well. Aplastic anemia may be idiopathic or secondary due to bone marrow damage by toxins, radiation, or immunologic factors. (NCI Thesaurus)
More information
Aplastic anemia is a rare but serious blood disorder. If you have it, your bone marrow doesn't make enough new blood cells. Causes include
• Being exposed to toxic substances, such as pesticides, arsenic, and benzene
• Radiation therapy and chemotherapy for cancer
• Certain medicines
• Infections such as hepatitis, Epstein-Barr virus, or HIV
• Autoimmune disorders
• Certain inherited conditions
In many people, the cause is unknown.
Your doctor will diagnose aplastic anemia based on your medical and family histories, a physical exam, and test results. Once your doctor knows the cause and severity of the condition, he or she can create a treatment plan for you. Treatments include blood transfusions, blood and marrow stem cell transplants, and medicines. (NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
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