Is aplastic anemia hereditary?

Jul 01, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have had anemia since childhood, and no matter how much iron I supplement or what medications I take, there's little effect. Is aplastic anemia hereditary?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng
The pathogenesis of aplastic anemia (often referred to as aplasia) is complex, and whether it is hereditary is not absolute. Most cases of aplastic anemia are not directly caused by genetic factors, but rather are induced by external factors such as medications, chemicals, viral infections, and ionizing radiation. In rare cases, aplastic anemia may be related to genetic factors, especially when it is associated with specific genetic disorders or gene mutations. Therefore, it cannot be generalized that aplastic anemia is hereditary, although the risk of developing the condition may be increased in certain genetic backgrounds. Individuals with a family history of aplastic anemia are advised to enhance health monitoring and undergo risk assessment and preventive measures under the guidance of a qualified physician.