Aplastic anemia

Symptoms

Aplastic anemia is not a leukemia, but is akin to the diseases mentioned above as it is a disease of the blood and bone marrow. In aplastic anemia an abnormality of the bone marrow inhibits the production of red and white blood cells as well as platelets in the marrow. The low blood cell and platelet count result in a feeling of malaise and cronic infections and bruising. Prelimiary testing for aplastic anemia involves a series of blood tests, and bone marrow samples are usually taken in order to return a positive diagnosis.

Treatment Options

The two most common forms of treatment for aplastic anemia are blood transfusions and drug therapy with the goal of suppressing the immune sysetm. Blood transfusions are the most commonly used form of treatment and are meant to restore red blood cells and platelets to the body. Unfortunately, transfusions are not effective for long-term restoration of these cells to the body because of the short life of white blood cells(typically one day or less).

Another common form of treatment for aplastic anemia patients is drug therapy. The two most common drugs used to treat aplastic anemia are immunosuppressive drugs and growth factors. Immunosuppressive drugs weaken the immune system of the patient so that his/her body will be more accepting of transplants. Growth factors are used to stimulate the growth of new cells in the patient’s body.

Let Us Help!

If you have questions about asbestos or benzene exposure and are concerned about possible occupational diseases and cancers, Shelton Law Group is here to help. Call us today for a FREE evaluation to find out if you have a case or fill out our case assessment form to consult with a member of our devoted staff.