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Idiopathic aplastic anemia
Alternative Names: Anemia - idiopathic aplastic Treatment: Mild cases of aplastic anemia are treated with supportive care. Blood transfusions and platelet transfusions help correct the abnormal blood counts and relieve some symptoms. Text Continues Below Severe aplastic anemia, as evidenced by very low blood cell counts, is a life-threatening condition. Bone marrow transplant is indicated for severe disease in younger patients. 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 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. Expectations (prognosis): Untreated aplastic anemia is an illness that leads to rapid death. Bone marrow transplantation has been successful in young people, with long term survival of 80%. Older people have a survival rate of 40 - 70%. Complications: Severe infections or bleeding may develop. Complications of treatment may include graft failure or graft vs. host disease, and an autoimmune disease, after bone marrow transplant. Patients can have reactions to ATG. Calling your health care provider: Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>