Secondary Aplastic Anemia
Alternate Names : Acquired Aplastic Anemia, Anemia - Secondary Aplastic
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Treatment
In secondary aplastic anemia, removal of the causative agent is critical, and in some cases can lead to recovery.
Mild cases of aplastic anemia may be treated with supportive care or may require no treatment. Blood transfusions and platelet transfusions will help correct the abnormal blood counts and relieve some symptoms, in moderate cases.
Severe aplastic anemia, as evidenced by very low blood-cell counts, is a life-threatening condition. A bone marrow transplant for younger patients is indicated in a severe case of the disease. For older patients, or for those who do not have a matched bone marrow donor, antithymocyte globulin (ATG) is the alternative treatment.
ATG is a horse serum that contains antibodies against human T cells, and it is used in an attempt to suppress the body's immune system, allowing the bone marrow to resume its blood-cell generating function. Other medications to suppress the immune system may be used, such as cyclosporine and Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide). Corticosteroids and androgens have also been used.
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