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How is aplastic anemia treated, and can it be cured?

Nov 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
In general, aplastic anemia can be treated through blood transfusions, infection prevention and control, hormone therapy, immunosuppressive therapy, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. It is usually curable. If severe physical discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. In daily life, the treatment of aplastic anemia is a long-term process that requires patients and their families to maintain a positive mindset.

Generally, aplastic anemia can be treated through blood transfusions, infection prevention and treatment, hormone therapy, immunosuppressive therapy, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. It can usually be cured. If severe physical discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Blood Transfusion Therapy

For patients with severe anemia, red blood cell transfusions may help alleviate symptoms of anemia, thereby improving the patient's quality of life and tolerance. However, during blood transfusion, it is important to closely monitor the patient's ferritin levels to avoid potential complications.

2. Infection Prevention and Treatment

Patients with aplastic anemia often have weakened immunity due to reduced white blood cell counts, making them more susceptible to infections. Personal hygiene should be maintained, particularly in areas such as the mouth and skin. If an infection occurs, broad-spectrum antibiotics should be promptly administered.

3. Hormone Therapy

Androgens can stimulate bone marrow to produce blood cells by increasing the production of erythropoietin, thus promoting the proliferation and differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells. However, these medications require long-term use and have a relatively slow onset of action, typically showing effects after 3–6 months of treatment.

4. Immunosuppressive Therapy

Cyclosporine A is a potent immunosuppressant that selectively inhibits T lymphocyte function, reducing damage to hematopoietic stem cells and thereby promoting bone marrow hematopoiesis.

5. Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

This treatment involves transplanting healthy hematopoietic stem cells into the patient to restore the patient's bone marrow hematopoietic function. However, this method carries risks such as infection and transplant failure.

In daily life, treating aplastic anemia is a long-term process. Patients and their families need to maintain a positive attitude and face the condition proactively, which can aid in recovery.

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