Skip to Main Content

Aplastic anemia

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 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 medicines, such as medicines taken to treat cancer.
  • Radiation treatments that destroy the bone marrow.
  • Certain viral infections.
  • Autoimmune disease.

Aplastic anemia sometimes develops for no known reason.

In some cases, a person may need blood transfusions until the bone marrow is able to produce blood cells. In other cases, a person may need a blood stem cell transplant. If the cause is an autoimmune disease, medicines to reduce the damage to the bone marrow may be used.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

© 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.