Aplastic anemia is a serious condition and the incidence reportedly occurs in three separate peaks: when people are 2-5 years old, 20-25 years old and 55-60 years old.  Aplastic anemia is a serious and sometimes fatal condition that can be defined as pancytopenia consisting of an "empty" bone marrow.

The condition effects the blood cells within the body and whether they can produce in a healthy and proper manner or not. The white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets in the human body can be strongly effected by aplastic anemia and as a result they can begin producing in an irregular way, causing conflict to the bone marrow.

Etiology of Aplastic Anemia Incidences

According to reports, an estimated 70% of aplastic anemia cases are idiopathic. However the other percentage of cases that occur are caused by:

• Hereditary Reasons- Fanconi Anemia, Dyskeratosis Congenital and Schwachman-Diamond syndrome can all lead to aplastic anemia
• Acquired Cases- Direct stem cell destruction, certain medications and  infections
• Exposure to benzene- Benzene and other toxic chemicals can causes aplastic anemia over time
• Immune Disorders- Hereditary and acquired immune disorders can lead to the condition
  

Receiving an Aplastic Anemia Diagnosis

Although the incidence of aplastic anemia is not very common, people are affected yearly by this health condition. A definitive diagnosis for aplastic anemia can be made by acquiring a bone marrow biopsy. A biopsy typically takes place in a lab that includes CBC with platelets and smear, drug screen, viral serologies, serum folate and B12.

The bone marrow biopsy is an effective way to show whether there is profound hypocellularity, with no malignant infiltrates or fibrosis. The hematopoetic cells that are present should be normal for a healthy outcome and should not be megaloblastic.

Receiving a Treatment for Aplastic Anemia

When a person is exposed to any agents known to cause aplastic anemia, such as benzene or other toxic chemicals, doctors want to make sure these agents are removed from the person’s life immediately. Particularly after a diagnosis is made since exposure can only worsen the patient’s health.

 However, in some cases the damage to the bone marrow is already irreversible and initial treatment consists of supportive care, blood transfusions and the overall limitation of infectious exposures.

While more definitive therapy consists of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. According to research, incidences of a matched sibling donor transplant having a cure rate of about 60-70%, or immunosuppressive therapy.

Do you know someone that is suffering from aplastic anemia due to exposure to benzene? If so, please contact us today to speak with an experienced attorney who will evaluate the case and ensure that your loved ones are receiving the legal guidance and advice they need and deserve.

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See Also:

• Aplastic Anemia Diagnosis
• Treatment For Aplastic Anemia

Benzene Leukemia Law Blog