Aplastic Anemia

Aplastic anemia is a rare but serious blood disorder. If you have it, your bone marrow doesn’t make enough new blood cells. Causes include

• Being exposed to toxic substances, such as pesticides, arsenic, and benzene
• Radiation therapy and chemotherapy for cancer
• Certain medicines
• Infections such as hepatitis, Epstein-Barr virus, or HIV
• Autoimmune disorders
• Certain inherited conditions

In many people, the cause is unknown.

Your doctor will diagnose aplastic anemia based on your medical and family histories, a physical exam, and test results. Once your doctor knows the cause and severity of the condition, he or she can create a treatment plan for you. Treatments include blood transfusions, blood and marrow stem cell transplants, and medicines.

NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute