WHAT IS APLASTIC ANEMIA?

When the bone marrow-the soft tissue at the center of most bones-cannot produce enough new blood cells to replenish old ones a person is considered to have what is known as aplastic anemia. Whereas anemia is marked by a low red blood cell count, a person with aplastic anemia has a lower than average count of all three blood cell groups: white blood cell, red blood cell, and platelet. Such a condition is the inverse of acute myelogenous leukemia where the blood marrow produces too many underdeveloped, deformed cells.

Anemia, fatigue, accelerated heart rate, nosebleeds, skin rashes, headaches, mysterious bruising, excessive bleeding from minor cuts, and pallid skin are common signs to look for when seeking to determine if one has this illness.

Aplastic anemia - what is sometimes referred to as benzene poisoning - has long been associated with occupational exposure to benzene (e.g., Greenburg, et al., 1926; Penati and Vigliani 1938; Hunter 1939; Mallory et al. 1939; Aksoy 1971; Aksoy 1978).

Aplastic anemia can develop rapidly or slowly over months. It can last for a brief period of time, or can develop into a chronic condition, which if untreated can be fatal. If promptly treated, however, a person's long term health prospects improve markedly.

While blood tests may provide clues as to whether or not a person has aplastic anemia, an examination of the bone marrow is the only way to conclusively ascertain if a patient has been stricken with this condition.

Blood transfusions, bone marrow transplants, and medications comprise the most common forms of treatment for this condition, which can strike at any age.

Among other potential factors, such as the use of medications designed to treat rheumatoid arthritis and viral infections, exposure to insecticides, pesticides and benzene can lead to aplastic anemia.

If you or someone you know has benzene poisoning, or has developed aplastic anemia, you may be entitled to compensation. For more information, call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or complete the email form.