Aplastic anemia

Content provided by Healthwise

Aplastic anemia

Aplastic anemia is a rare condition in which the bone marrow is unable to produce blood cells normally. The production of just some blood cells (such as red blood cells only) may be affected, or the production of all types of blood cells may be decreased.

Symptoms of aplastic anemia usually develop gradually and include:

Fatigue, weakness, or lack of energy.
Headaches or breathing problems that occur after exercise.
Infections that keep returning or are more severe than usual.
Frequent nosebleeds or bleeding under the skin.

Causes of aplastic anemia can include:

Exposure to poisonous (toxic) chemicals.
Certain medications, such as medications taken to treat cancer.
Radiation treatments that destroy the bone marrow.
Certain viral infections.

Aplastic anemia sometimes develops for no known reason.

In some cases, a person may need blood transfusions until his or her bone marrow is able to produce blood cells. In other cases, a person may need a bone marrow transplant.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.