When it comes to refractory anemia, the first thing you should know is that this condition is an autoimmune disease that may affect any blood cell type. In other words, it can affect any one of the three types of blood cells: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The symptoms vary depending on the type of refractory anemia. It can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, and other problems. A complete blood count, or Cbc, can help you determine how many red blood cells and other types of blood cells are in your body.
Refractory anemia is when a patient fails to increase his or her hemoglobin level by at least one gram per deciliter. Patients with refractory anemia usually exhibit the following symptoms: pale skin, weak muscles, and tiredness. They may also experience shortness of breath, dizziness, or other symptoms. If left untreated, refractory anemia can lead to other complications.
Depending on the type of refractory anemia, patients may suffer from easy or free bleeding. This can make the condition frightening to both parents and healthcare providers. However, there are several options to treat the condition.
Treatment of refractory anemia usually involves iron therapy. Patients should take 100 mg of elemental iron each day for four to six weeks. Patients who have a history of hereditary iron deficiency should be evaluated for mutations that may be involved in the iron regulation. Other causes of refractory anemia should be excluded before the diagnosis is made.
Another possible cause of refractory anemia is hereditary IDA. In this case, patients must have a copy of a mutation in the TMPRSS6 gene. These changes in the gene can inhibit the production of hepcidin, a hormone that helps regulate iron in the body. Several factors can influence the production of hepcidin, including a lack of sufficient iron in the diet and the body’s failure to absorb enough iron.
IRIDA is a rare genetic disorder that can develop in children. Typically, a child starts to show symptoms in infancy. He or she will not respond to an IV iron infusion. Researchers are still gaining a fuller understanding of IRIDA’s clinical features and treatment. Some researchers at Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Hospital are leading the way in refractory anemia treatment. Since the disease is rare, it is important to find a diagnosis quickly.
Anemia is a group of conditions that cause a shortage of healthy blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to tissues and cells. White blood cells fight unhealthy bacteria and clot the blood. Platelets are also important for clotting. Low levels of these blood cells may be caused by infection, illness, or an underlying condition.
As a result of the lack of effective treatments, some people with refractory cytopenia may experience few symptoms at the beginning of the disease. In others, the symptoms will get worse and lead to acute myelogeous leukemia (AML). AML is a form of cancer, and the risk of developing it increases with each passing year.
