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 medications, such as medications taken to treat
cancer.
- Radiation treatments that destroy the bone
marrow.
- Certain viral infections.
Aplastic anemia sometimes develops for no known reason.
In some cases, a person may need blood transfusions until his or
her bone marrow is able to produce blood cells. In other cases, a person may
need a bone marrow transplant.
