Aplastic anemia occurs when hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow are damaged, resulting in decreased blood cell production, leading to anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. As the disease progresses, patients experience fatigue, susceptibility to infections, and bleeding, severely affecting quality of life and survival rates.
The incidence of aplastic anemia varies between Europe, the United States, and Southeast Asia. In Europe and the U.S., about 2–3 cases per million occur annually, and with medical advances, treatment outcomes continue to improve. In Southeast Asia, the incidence is higher, about 4–6 cases per million. In some areas, environmental factors and drug exposure worsen conditions, and limited medical resources impact treatment effectiveness.
Early stage:
Mild anemia and immune decline appear in the early stage, with patients prone to fatigue and infection. Symptoms are often subtle and easily overlooked.
Middle stage:
As blood cell counts continue to decrease, anemia worsens, with noticeable fatigue, shortness of breath, and frequent infections, leading to a significant decline in quality of life.
Late stage:
Severe thrombocytopenia leads to bleeding tendencies, immune function is severely impaired, and patients are prone to fatal infections and organ failure, posing a life-threatening risk.
1. Anemia symptoms
Patients present with pale complexion, fatigue, palpitations, and shortness of breath, caused by reduced red blood cell production and resulting tissue hypoxia.
2. Infection symptoms
Leukopenia lowers immunity, making patients prone to recurrent infections such as fever, cough, and oral ulcers.
3. Bleeding symptoms
Thrombocytopenia causes skin bruises, nosebleeds, and gum bleeding, with severe cases involving internal organ hemorrhage.
4. Fatigue and dizziness
Insufficient blood cells reduce oxygen supply, causing patients to frequently feel weak and dizzy.
5. Skin manifestations
Patients may develop pale skin, petechiae, and ecchymoses, reflecting thrombocytopenia and anemia.
6. Oral symptoms
Oral mucosa is prone to ulcers and bleeding, affecting diet and quality of life.
7. Bone pain
Some patients develop bone pain and joint discomfort due to bone marrow involvement.
8. Other manifestations
Patients may also experience fever, night sweats, and weight loss, indicating disease progression.
Aplastic anemia is a severe hematopoietic system disease. Without timely treatment, patients are at risk of multiple organ dysfunction or even death. Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that early recognition and scientific treatment are particularly critical. Modern methods such as immune reconstruction and stem cell therapy can effectively improve prognosis, enhance quality of life, and support recovery.