About Agranulocytosis, Acquired
What is Agranulocytosis, Acquired?
Agranulocytosis, acquired is a rare, life-threatening condition in which the body does not produce enough white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infection. It is caused by certain medications, infections, or autoimmune diseases. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, and fatigue. Treatment typically involves stopping the medication or infection that caused the condition, and may include antibiotics, blood transfusions, and other medications.
What are the symptoms of Agranulocytosis, Acquired?
Symptoms of acquired agranulocytosis may include:
-Fever
-Chills
-Sore throat
-Mouth sores
-Fatigue
-Weakness
-Weight loss
-Loss of appetite
-Night sweats
-Shortness of breath
-Skin rash
-Joint pain
-Enlarged lymph nodes
-Abdominal pain
-Diarrhea
-Nausea and vomiting
What are the causes of Agranulocytosis, Acquired?
1. Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and antipsychotics.
2. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy used to treat cancer.
3. Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
4. Viral infections, such as HIV, hepatitis, and Epstein-Barr virus.
5. Bacterial infections, such as sepsis.
6. Exposure to certain toxins, such as benzene.
7. Bone marrow disorders, such as aplastic anemia.
8. Genetic disorders, such as Fanconi anemia.
What are the treatments for Agranulocytosis, Acquired?
1. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are used to treat any underlying infections that may be causing the agranulocytosis.
2. Granulocyte-stimulating factors: These medications stimulate the bone marrow to produce more white blood cells.
3. Blood transfusions: If the patient’s white blood cell count is very low, a blood transfusion may be necessary to replace the missing cells.
4. Immunosuppressants: Immunosuppressants may be used to reduce the body’s immune response and prevent further destruction of white blood cells.
5. Stem cell transplant: In some cases, a stem cell transplant may be necessary to replace the destroyed white blood cells.
What are the risk factors for Agranulocytosis, Acquired?
The risk factors for Acquired Agranulocytosis include:
1. Use of certain medications, such as antithyroid drugs, anticonvulsants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
2. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene, insecticides, and herbicides.
3. Infections, such as HIV, hepatitis, and Epstein-Barr virus.
4. Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
5. Radiation therapy.
6. Bone marrow disorders, such as aplastic anemia.
7. Genetic predisposition.
8. Advanced age.
9. Alcoholism.
10. Smoking.
Is there a cure/medications for Agranulocytosis, Acquired?
Yes, there are treatments available for acquired agranulocytosis. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to fight any infection, and medications to stimulate the bone marrow to produce more white blood cells. In some cases, a bone marrow transplant may be necessary.