Severe aplastic anemia (SAA) is a rare blood disorder that can be life-threatening if left untreated. SAA is thought to result from certain cells of the immune system inappropriately attacking healthy cells within the bone marrow. This leads to:
- A low white blood cell count, which increases the risk of infection
- A low red blood cell count, which decreases the ability to deliver oxygen and may cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath
- A low platelet count, which increases the risk of bruising and bleeding
The treatment of aplastic anemia may include immunosuppressant agents (shown below) or a stem cell transplant if a stem cell donor can be identified. A matched sibling donor is often thought to be be the best option, if one is available. The goals of these treatments are to restore the healthy bone marrow cells, prevent infection and bleeding, and to stop the need for blood or platelet transfusions.
