Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Aplastic Anemia
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the disease?
Aplastic anemia is life- threatening. Initial treatment often includes the following:
Other treatments may be ordered, depending on the cause of the aplastic anemia. These treatments include the following:
Bone marrow transplant is an effective treatment for some people with aplastic anemia. More than half of the good candidates for bone marrow transplant are cured. People are good candidates if they meet the following criteria.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Medications used to treat aplastic anemia may increase the person's risk for infection. Some may cause allergic reactions. A bone marrow transplant may cause bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to anesthesia.
What happens after treatment for the disease?
Until blood cell counts return to normal, someone who has aplastic anemia is at risk for infection, bleeding, and other complications. It's important to avoid risk factors, including:
How is the disease monitored?
The person with aplastic anemia will have regular visits with the healthcare provider. Repeated blood tests may be ordered to test for the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the provider.