Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic Anemia Treatment in Kolkata
Aplastic Anemia refers to a condition that occurs when the body stops producing sufficient new blood cells. With this condition, one may feel fatigued and more susceptible to infections and unregulated bleeding. Contact Aastha Clinic for the best aplastic anemia doctor in Kolkata if you need treatment for this condition.
Symptoms of Aplastic Anemia
Consult our aplastic anemia doctor in Newtown if you notice any of the following symptoms.
- Frequent viral infections that last for a long period
- Bruising or bleeding
- Paler skin than usual
- Shortness of breath
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fever
Causes of Aplastic Anemia
Know what are the main causes behind aplastic anemia.
01. Acquired Causes (More Common)
Acquired aplastic anemia occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the bone marrow, or when other environmental factors damage it.02. Congenital Causes
Congenital aplastic anemia is inherited, and it is often present from birth or early childhood.03. Idiopathic Causes
In many cases, the cause of aplastic anemia is idiopathic, meaning that no specific cause can be identified despite thorough investigation. The immune system may mistakenly attack the bone marrow, but the underlying triggers are unclear.04. Other Factors
This occurs when red blood cells are destroyed faster than the bone marrow can produce them.
Pregnancy:
Although rare, aplastic anemia can occur during pregnancy due to immune system changes.
Chemical Exposure:
A history of chemical exposure (like to certain industrial chemicals) may also be a factor in some cases.
Aplastic anemia requires prompt diagnosis and treatment because of the risk of severe complications like infection or bleeding, resulting from low blood cell counts.
Diagnosis of Aplastic Anemia
Find out how aplastic anemia is diagnosed:
01. Medical History and Physical Examination
The doctor will ask about symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, frequent infections, easy bruising, or prolonged bleeding (nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or heavy menstrual periods). They will also check for signs of anemia (paleness), infections (fever), and signs of bleeding or bruising.02. Blood Tests
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
This is one of the first tests performed. A CBC will show:- Low red blood cell (RBC) count, leading to anemia (fatigue, weakness).
- A low white blood cell (WBC) count, increases the risk of infections.
- Low platelet count, causing easy bruising, bleeding gums, and prolonged bleeding.
Reticulocyte Count
Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells, and a low reticulocyte count indicates that the bone marrow is not producing enough new red blood cells.Bone Marrow Study
The primary test for diagnosing aplastic anemia is a bone marrow biopsy and aspiration.03. Other Imaging and Tests (If Needed)
Liver Function Tests
These may be done if there is suspicion of viral hepatitis or other liver-related causes of aplastic anemia.Bone Marrow Flow Cytometry
This is a specialized test that uses antibodies to identify and quantify different cell types in the bone marrow. It can help rule out leukemia or other blood cancers.Chest X-ray or CT scan
These might be performed to check for signs of infection or any other underlying conditions that could be contributing to the symptoms.
Treatments for Aplastic Anemia
Below are the main treatment options for aplastic anemia:Immunosuppressive Therapy
This is often used in patients who are not suitable for a stem cell transplant or who have less severe forms of aplastic anemia. The immune system attacks the bone marrow, and immunosuppressive drugs help reduce this activity.Bone Marrow or Stem Cell Transplant
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), also known as a bone marrow transplant, is the most effective treatment for patients with severe aplastic anemia, especially if the condition is life-threatening or unresponsive to other treatments.Blood Transfusions
- Red blood cell transfusions are used to treat anemia and alleviate symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath.
- Platelet transfusions are given to treat low platelet counts and reduce the risk of bleeding.
If you want to know more about these treatments, reach out to our aplastic anemia clinic in Newtown, Kolkata today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any complications associated with aplastic anemia?
Possible complications include infections, uncontrolled bleeding, and organ damage due to low blood counts. Severe forms can be life-threatening without proper treatment.
How can aplastic anemia be prevented?
While most cases cannot be prevented, avoiding exposure to toxic chemicals, certain medications, and viruses may reduce the risk. Genetic counseling may be advised for families with inherited forms of the disease.
Is aplastic anemia contagious?
No, aplastic anemia is not contagious. It is not caused by bacteria or viruses that can be spread between people.
What is the role of blood transfusions in treating aplastic anemia?
Blood transfusions may be used to manage symptoms and maintain safe blood counts while other treatments take effect. They help replenish red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets as needed.
Is aplastic anemia hereditary?
Some forms of aplastic anemia are inherited, such as Fanconi anemia, a genetic disorder that predisposes individuals to bone marrow failure. However, the majority of cases are acquired, not inherited.
