Aplastic Anemia Overview

Which factors are associated with secondary acquired aplastic anemia?

Which of the following correctly characterizes the features of Fanconi Anemia?

Which of the following is NOT a common physical abnormality associated with Fanconi Anemia?

What is the most frequently implicated drug in acquired aplastic anemia?

Which of the following tests is used for diagnosing Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)?

What is the primary cause of Microcytic, Hypochromic Anemias?

What defines the main characteristic of acquired aplastic anemia cases?

Which of the following statements correctly describes the nature of inherited aplastic anemia?

Acquired Aplastic Anemia

Accounts for approximately 80-85% of aplastic anemia cases
Two categories:
- Idiopathic: no known cause
- Secondary: associated with a known cause (e.g., chemicals, viruses, drugs; chloramphenicol is a frequent cause)

Inherited Aplastic Anemia

Accounts for approximately 15-20% of aplastic anemia cases
Associated diseases:
- Dyskeratosis congenita
- Shwachman-Bodian-Diamond syndrome
- Fanconi Anemia (FA)

Fanconi Anemia (FA)

Most common inherited aplastic anemia
Chromosome instability disorder
Characterized by: aplastic anemia, cancer susceptibility, and physical abnormalities
- Skeletal abnormalities (e.g., thumb malformations, microcephaly, scoliosis)
- Skin pigmentation abnormalities (e.g., hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, café-au-lait lesions)
- Short stature
- Abnormalities in the eyes, kidneys, and genitals

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)

Also known as Marchiafava-Micheli Syndrome
Caused by deficiency of:
- DAF (decay-accelerating factor) or CD55
- MIRL (membrane inhibitor of reactive lysis) or CD59

Microcytic, Hypochromic Anemias

Characterized by small red blood cells with central pallor, and decreased MCV and MCHC
Results from insufficient iron levels for erythropoiesis
Abnormal iron studies
Early stages may show reduced iron stores, but not always a full-blown anemia

This quiz covers the two primary types of aplastic anemia: acquired and inherited. It delves into the causes, associated syndromes, and specific characteristics of Fanconi Anemia and Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria. Test your knowledge on these critical hematological conditions.