Signs of aplastic anemia include lethargy and pale mucous membranes, most readily observed by looking at the gums. When the intact female ferret is examined, her vulva will usually be found to be swollen and enlarged, indicating persistent estrus or heat.
What is the survival rate of aplastic anemia?
Aplastic anemia is a life-threatening condition with very high death rates (about 70% within 1 year) if untreated. The overall five-year survival rate is about 80% for patients under age 20. In recent years, the long-term outcomes of aplastic anemia patients have been continuously improving.
What are the common early signs of aplastic anemia?
Overall, the most common symptoms of aplastic anemia include:
- Significant fatigue or weakness.
- Bruising or bleeding easily.
- Shortness of breath.
- Recurring infections and/or flu-like symptoms.
- The appearance of small red dots on the skin that indicates bleeding under the skin.
- Headache.
- Fever due to infection.
What is the treatment of choice for aplastic anemia?
A stem cell transplant, also called a bone marrow transplant, is generally the treatment of choice for people who are younger and have a matching donor — most often a sibling. If a donor is found, your diseased bone marrow is first depleted with radiation or chemotherapy.
Is aplastic anemia curable?
Without treatment, aplastic anemia can increase the risk of serious infections, bleeding, heart problems and other complications. The only cure for aplastic anemia is a bone marrow transplant.
What triggers aplastic anemia?
The most common cause of aplastic anemia is from your immune system attacking the stem cells in your bone marrow. Other factors that can injure bone marrow and affect blood cell production include: Radiation and chemotherapy treatments.
Is aplastic anemia fatal?
Aplastic anemia is a rare, potentially fatal disease in which the bone marrow doesn't make enough blood cells. The bone marrow is the central portion of the bones that is responsible for making: Red blood cells, which carry oxygen. White blood cells, which fight infection.
Is aplastic anemia painful?
Individuals with anemia may experience tiredness, increased need for sleep, weakness, lightheadedness, dizziness, irritability, headaches, pale skin color, difficulty breathing, and cardiac symptoms like chest pain.