Aplastic anemia affects the cavity of the bones and the red, spongy material known as bone marrow. The bone marrow contains stem cells that work together to produce red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. In order to replace older blood cells within the body, the bone marrow needs to consistently produce new blood cells. However, aplastic anemia has a negative effect on how these blood cells are produced and when the bone marrow becomes damaged, this cell production can slow down or become erratic.

There are certain causes that doctors are certain about in terms of why people develop aplastic anemia; however, in some cases, doctors can’t identify why a patient is having aplastic anemia symptoms and suffering from the illness.

Common Causes of Aplastic Anemia

The following are some common factors that can cause the bone marrow to become injured within the human body and potentially lead to aplastic anemia.

Radiation or Chemotherapy Treatments- Although these types of treatments help to kill cancer cells, they can also have a damaging effect on healthy cells within the body

Benzene Exposure- Benzene is a known carcinogen that can have a fatal affect on those who inhale, handle or ingest it over an extended time period

Medication Use- Some types of medications, such as antibiotics and drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis can be the cause of aplastic anemia

Autoimmune Disorder- Autoimmune disorders like lupus can cause your body to cause injury to the bone marrow and start attacking healthy cells

Viral Infections- Some viral infections could cause certain people to develop aplastic anemia

Pregnancy- Aplastic anemia can occur during pregnancy and could be related to an autoimmune problem

Other Unknown Factors- In half of aplastic anemia cases, doctors are unable to identify what is causing aplastic anemia in patients

Who is at Risk?

In the United States an estimated 1,000 people are diagnosed with aplastic anemia yearly. However, in Asian countries the condition is far more common. Aplastic anemia is most common in people who:

• Have been exposed to benzene and other toxins
  
• Have viruses like HIV and hepatitis
  
• Have an inherited disorder

Treating Aplastic Anemia

There are several treatments available for those who have aplastic anemia, no matter what the cause may be. Typically, doctors will treat aplastic anemia patients using medications, chemotherapy or a blood transfusion. In more severe cases, patients must undergo a bone marrow transplant, though this can often be a risky procedure and one that requires patients to find a healthy and willing donor.

If you or someone you love feel that you have been put at risk and could have aplastic anemia, please contact us today to speak with an experienced medical attorney who will give you the support and legal guidance you need and deserve.

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See Also:

    * Aplastic Anemia Diagnosis
    * Treatment For Aplastic Anemia

Benzene Leukemia Law Blog