Blood test findings in aplastic anaemia
| Test | Finding | Severity threshold |
|---|---|---|
| Haemoglobin | Low | <8 g/dL = severe |
| Neutrophils (ANC) | Very low | <500/µL = severe; <200/µL = very severe |
| Platelets | Very low | <20,000/µL = severe |
| Reticulocyte count | Very low | <1% = hypoproliferative bone marrow |
| Bone marrow biopsy | Hypocellular — mostly fat cells | Confirms diagnosis |
What is aplastic anaemia?
Pancytopenia from bone marrow failure
In aplastic anaemia, the bone marrow's blood-forming stem cells are destroyed — usually by an autoimmune T-cell attack. The result is pancytopenia: low red blood cells (anaemia), low white blood cells (neutropenia — risk of serious infections), and low platelets (thrombocytopenia — risk of bleeding). Without treatment, severe aplastic anaemia is life-threatening. Causes include autoimmune (most common), viral infections (EBV, hepatitis), toxic exposures, radiation, and rarely inherited (Fanconi anaemia).
Treatment options
| Treatment | For whom |
|---|---|
| Allogeneic bone marrow transplant | Severe aplastic anaemia in patients <40 with matched sibling donor — potential cure |
| Immunosuppression (ATG + cyclosporin) | Severe AA without a matched donor, or older patients |
| Eltrombopag (TPO receptor agonist) | Added to immunosuppression to boost marrow recovery |
| Supportive care | Blood and platelet transfusions, antibiotics for infections |
Questions to ask your haematologist
- Is my pancytopenia severe enough to need bone marrow transplant?
- Has a cause been found for my aplastic anaemia?
- Do I have a matched sibling donor for transplant?
- What infections should I watch for with low neutrophils?
Medical Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.