Canterbury DHB
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Aplastic Anaemia (AA) is typically seen in young adults, and in this age group, late onset Fanconi anaemia will need to be considered. There is a second peak in incidence over the age of 50, and at this age, AA needs to be distinguished from hypocellular MDS/AML.
Symptoms and signs secondary to anaemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia are usually present and the onset may be quite abrupt. Often, the patient is generally well. On examination, there is no enlargement of liver, spleen, or lymph nodes.
In Fanconi Anaemia, obvious congenital abnormalities (including patchy areas of increased skin pigmentation) may be seen.
It is important to take a complete history of any drug or chemical exposure or of any infections that may have occurred over the preceding 12 months. For example, there may be a delay of some months following an attack of hepatitis before the onset of AA.
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Topic Code: 4920
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