A relative has been diagnosed with aplastic anaemia. Can you explain what this is?
Blood cells are produced in the body by bone marrow. These include red cells, that carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body; white cells, which fight infection; and platelets, which are involved in blood clotting. Bone marrow is soft connective tissue found mainly in the cavities of our long bones such as the femur, the humerus and the sternum. Aplastic anaemia develops when the bone marrow fails to produce or suppresses all three blood cell types. A lack of red blood cells results in anaemia and subsequent fatigue, weakness and breathlessness on exertion. A deficiency of white blood cells tends to cause fever, malaise and areas of red, tender, swollen skin and an increase in the risk of infection. A shortage of platelets causes bruising and superficial bleeding.
At first she developed mild symptoms including headaches, tiredness and shortness of breath when walking up the stairs but by the time a diagnosis was made she was really quite ill. Is this normal?
Aplastic anaemia usually begins with non-specific symptoms but as it progresses it becomes more severe and can even be life threatening. If there is a lack of oxygen as a result of loss of red cells it can damage vital organs such as the heart or kidneys. A deficiency of white blood cells can lead to an increased susceptibility to serious infections, while a reduction in platelets can result in a massive bleed leading to organ damage or haemorrhagic shock.
What causes the condition and how can it be treated?
Aplastic anaemia is relatively rare and in about half the cases the cause is unknown. The condition can be precipitated by certain drugs, exposure to industrial chemicals, a virus, radiation or may be the result of a congenital abnormality. There is no specific cure for the disorder. Treatment includes drug therapy, blood transfusions, activity restrictions and a special diet. In severe cases, a bone marrow transplant or removal of the spleen may be recommended.