Aplastic Anaemia: When the Bone Marrow Stops Working

When Blood Production Fails

Aplastic anaemia is a life-threatening condition where the bone marrow stops making enough red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets — leading to anaemia, infections, and uncontrolled bleeding simultaneously.

Causes in the Nigerian Context

• Autoimmune — in most cases, the immune system attacks stem cells in the bone marrow
• Medications and chemicals — chloramphenicol (widely used in Nigeria) is a notorious drug cause. Benzene exposure (from petroleum products) is also recognised
• Viral infections — hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV (all highly prevalent in Nigeria) can trigger aplastic anaemia

Recognising the Symptoms

• Fatigue and breathlessness (from anaemia)
• Frequent or severe infections (from low white cell count)
• Easy bruising, prolonged bleeding, nosebleeds (from low platelets)
• Fever without obvious infection

Treatment and Support

Aplastic anaemia requires haematologist management: immunosuppressive therapy or bone marrow transplant for severe cases. Early referral to a tertiary centre with haematology services is essential. FXMed can support investigation of the underlying cause (viral serology, medication review, toxin exposure assessment) and nutritional support during recovery.