Moderate Aplastic Anemia
Understanding Moderate Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia is a rare but serious disorder that affects the production of new blood cells in the body. It is a form of bone marrow failure, where the bone marrow produces an abnormally low amount of red and white blood cells and platelets – the components of healthy blood.
Moderate aplastic anemia (MAA) is less severe than the other forms of aplastic anemia. It is a condition where patients have low ANC (absolute neutrophil count) and/or platelet counts less than 45 x 109/L, but not low enough to be classified as severe aplastic anemia (SAA). It is important to distinguish between these two forms of aplastic anemia, as they require different treatments and prognoses.
Signs and Symptoms of Moderate Aplastic Anemia
The signs and symptoms of moderate aplastic anemia can differ from person to person. The most common symptoms can include:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Infections
- Frequent or excessive bleeding
- Pale skin
- Rapid heart rate
Causes of Moderate Aplastic Anemia
The exact cause of moderate aplastic anemia is not fully understood. In some cases, it can be caused by a viral infection such as a virus from the family which includes the Epstein-Barr virus. Other causes may include autoimmune diseases, exposure to certain medications or chemicals, or radiation therapy.
Treatment of Moderate Aplastic Anemia
Treatment of MAA depends on the severity of the condition and the age of the patient. Treatment can include blood transfusions, immunosuppressive therapy, bone marrow transplantation, and supportive care. Blood transfusions can be used to replace lost red blood cells and platelets. Immunosuppressive therapy is often used in younger patients to help stop the destruction of bone marrow and allow the body to produce new blood cells. Bone marrow transplantation can offer a potential cure, but is typically only an option for younger patients.
For those who do not qualify for more aggressive treatments, supportive care may include blood transfusions and medications to stop bleeding, treat infections, and boost the immune system.
Outlook for Patients with Moderate Aplastic Anemia
The outlook for moderate aplastic anemia can vary from patient to patient. Some patients may respond well to treatment, while others may require more aggressive therapies or even a stem cell or bone marrow transplant. The long-term prognosis is difficult to predict, but many patients will respond to treatment.