Aplastic Anaemia: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Aplastic Anaemia is a rare but serious blood disorder where the bone marrow stops producing enough blood cells. This condition can develop suddenly or slowly and can affect people of any age. Without enough red cells, white cells, and platelets, the body struggles to carry oxygen, fight infections, and stop bleeding. Early recognition and prompt treatment are critical.

Let’s break down the signs of Aplastic Anaemia, explore its causes, and discuss the best approaches for diagnosis and treatment.

What is Aplastic Anaemia?

Bone marrow is the soft, spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells are made. In Aplastic Anaemia, the marrow becomes damaged and doesn’t make enough of the cells your body needs. This leads to low blood counts, a condition also known as pancytopenia.

Unlike cancers of the bone marrow (like leukaemia), Aplastic Anaemia is a failure of production, not overproduction. It’s classified as a type of bone marrow failure syndrome and is considered a medical emergency when severe.

Aplastic Anaemia Symptoms

The symptoms often come from the shortage of each type of blood cell:

Low Red Blood Cells (Anaemia)

• Fatigue and weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Pale skin

Low White Blood Cells (Leukopenia)

• Frequent infections
• Fever with no known cause

Low Platelets (Thrombocytopenia)

• Easy bruising
• Nosebleeds or bleeding gums
• Prolonged bleeding from minor cuts
• Tiny red spots on the skin (petechiae)

If you notice a combination of these signs, it’s essential to get medical attention. Recognising Aplastic Anaemia symptoms early can be life-saving.

Aplastic Anaemia Causes

There are two main types: acquired and inherited.

Acquired Aplastic Anaemia

Most cases are acquired, meaning they develop over time due to damage to the bone marrow. Common causes include:

• Autoimmune diseases – The immune system mistakenly attacks the bone marrow.
• Certain medications – Drugs like chemotherapy agents, some antibiotics, and NSAIDs.
• Toxins and chemicals – Benzene (found in some industrial products) and pesticides.
• Radiation and chemotherapy – Used in cancer treatment, these can impair marrow function.
• Viral infections – Hepatitis, HIV, and Epstein-Barr virus can trigger marrow suppression.
• Idiopathic (unknown causes) – In over half of the cases, no clear cause is found.

Inherited Aplastic Anaemia

Rare genetic conditions such as Fanconi Anaemia or Dyskeratosis Congenita can cause bone marrow failure, usually appearing in childhood.

How is Aplastic Anaemia Diagnosed?

Aplastic Anaemia diagnosis begins with a complete blood count (CBC) showing reduced levels of all blood cell types. If Aplastic Anaemia is suspected, doctors will often follow up with:

• Bone marrow biopsy – This is the gold standard. The sample will show a marrow that’s empty or contains very few blood-forming cells.
• Additional tests – These may include viral panels, genetic screening, and autoimmune workups to determine the cause.

It’s crucial to differentiate Aplastic Anaemia from other blood disorders such as leukaemia or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), which can present similarly but have different treatments.

Aplastic Anaemia Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of the disease, age, and overall health of the patient. The main treatment goals are to restore blood cell production, reduce complications, and treat the underlying cause if identified.

1. Immunosuppressive Therapy

For those not eligible for a transplant (especially older adults), immunosuppressive drugs such as antithymocyte globulin (ATG) and cyclosporine are the first line of treatment. These medications calm the immune system, preventing it from attacking the bone marrow.

2. Bone Marrow Transplant

This is the only curative treatment for severe Aplastic Anaemia. It replaces the damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a compatible donor.

Patients often search for the Best Bone Marrow Transplant Hospital in Bangalore and seek out the Best Bone Marrow Transplant Doctors in Bangalore for this procedure. Success rates are highest when a match is found early and treatment is started promptly.

3. Supportive Care

While awaiting or alongside treatment, patients may need:

• Blood transfusions to manage anaemia and bleeding
• Antibiotics or antivirals to prevent or treat infections
• Growth factors to stimulate blood cell production in some cases

4. Treating the Underlying Cause

If a specific cause, like a drug or toxin, is identified, removing the exposure is key. In viral cases, managing the infection can lead to marrow recovery.

When to Seek Medical Help?

If you or someone you know has signs of severe fatigue, frequent infections, or unexplained bruising, don’t delay. These could be early signs of Aplastic Anaemia, and early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

People in Bangalore experiencing symptoms should consider getting an Aplastic Anaemia diagnosis from a specialised centre. Look for hospitals with experience in bone marrow failure syndromes and access to transplant facilities.

Living with Aplastic Anaemia

Life with Aplastic Anaemia can be managed with proper treatment and regular monitoring. Many patients respond well to therapy and regain normal lives, especially when the condition is detected early.

For families and caregivers, emotional support and education about the condition are essential. Connecting with support groups and staying informed about treatment options helps in navigating the journey.

Conclusion

Aplastic Anaemia is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by bone marrow failure. Knowing the Aplastic Anaemia symptoms, understanding its causes, and getting a timely diagnosis are key to effective treatment. Whether through immunotherapy or a bone marrow transplant, treatment has advanced greatly, giving patients a chance at full recovery.

If you’re in Bangalore and seeking treatment, make sure to consult with top specialists at reputable institutions. The Best Bone Marrow Transplant Doctors in Bangalore can offer expert care tailored to your specific condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common cause of Aplastic Anaemia?

Autoimmune destruction of the bone marrow is the most common known cause, though over 50% of cases are idiopathic.

Is Aplastic Anaemia curable?

Yes, especially with a successful bone marrow transplant. Many patients can live long, healthy lives after treatment.

How is Aplastic Anaemia different from leukaemia?

In Aplastic Anaemia, the bone marrow doesn’t produce enough blood cells. In leukaemia, the marrow overproduces abnormal white cells.

Can Aplastic Anaemia come back?

Yes, relapses can happen, especially after immunosuppressive therapy. Regular follow-ups are important to monitor for recurrence.