Pure red cell aplasia

Overview

Pure red cell aplasia affects only red cells, so white cells and platelets are usually normal.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Tiredness and pale skin

Less common

• Shortness of breath
• Fast heartbeat

Look up a symptom: Fatigue · Getting winded easily with activity or stairs · Pale skin

When to get medical care

Causes

Immune, infection.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• People with thymus tumors or lupus: Higher risk

Possible complications

• Hemochromatosis (iron overload): From many transfusions

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood count:
• Bone marrow test:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Rest
• Keep transfusion appointments
• Rest when tired

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Tell doctors about medicines

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a hematologist (blood doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults with thymoma: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Treatment helps many.

Treatment helps most.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Do I need immune treatment?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Pure red cell aplasia