Aplastic Anemia: When Bone Marrow Loses Its Capacity

Sahabat Hermina, aplastic anemia is a rare condition in which the bone marrow loses its ability to produce sufficient amounts of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. This causes a decrease in the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the bloodstream.

Causes of Aplastic Anemia

The causes of aplastic anemia are not fully understood, but some factors that may cause this condition include:

• Genetic Factors: Some cases of aplastic anemia have a genetic basis, although this is rare.
• Autoimmune Reaction: The immune system attacks and damages healthy cells in the bone marrow.
• Exposure to Toxic Substances: Exposure to certain chemicals such as pesticides, benzene, or certain medications can cause aplastic anemia.
• Viral Infections: Viral infections such as hepatitis, HIV, or Epstein-Barr virus can also cause aplastic anemia in some cases.

Symptoms of Aplastic Anemia

Symptoms of aplastic anemia vary depending on the severity of the condition, but common symptoms include:

• Severe fatigue.
• Pale skin.
• Fast heartbeat.
• Bruises or bleeds easily.
• Frequent or severe infections.
• Gum or nose bleeding that is difficult to stop.
• Losing unwanted weight.
• Increased body temperature (fever).

Treatment of Aplastic Anemia

Treatment of aplastic anemia aims to increase the production of blood cells in the bone marrow. Therapies that may be used include:

• Bone Marrow Transplant: Bone marrow transplant aims to replace damaged bone marrow with a healthy one from a suitable donor.
• Immunosuppressive Therapy: Immunosuppressive drugs are used to inhibit an overactive immune system that attacks the bone marrow.
• Blood Transfusion: Blood transfusion may be given to replace blood cells that are low in the bloodstream.
• Bone Marrow Stimulant Drugs: Certain medications can stimulate the bone marrow to increase blood cell production.
• Monitoring and Supportive Care: Supportive care such as antibiotics to prevent infection and skin care for wounds or bruises may be given.

Prevention of Aplastic Anemia

Because many causes of aplastic anemia are unknown or difficult to avoid, prevention is often difficult to achieve directly. However, reducing exposure to toxic substances such as pesticides or dangerous chemicals, as well as implementing hygiene measures to prevent infection, can help reduce the risk of this condition.

Well, aplastic anemia is a serious condition in which the bone marrow loses its ability to produce blood cells in sufficient quantities. Treatment involves various therapies to increase blood cell production and improve associated symptoms. The best prevention is reducing exposure to toxic substances and keeping the immune system strong through a healthy lifestyle. Stay healthy.