Cause 10. Cancer and Cancer Treatments: The Double-Edged Sword
Cancer and its treatments can also contribute to the development of aplastic anemia. Certain cancers, particularly those involving the bone marrow, such as leukemia and lymphoma, can directly impair blood cell production and lead to aplastic anemia.
Cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, can also cause aplastic anemia. These treatments target rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells, but can also affect healthy bone marrow cells. In some cases, the damage to bone marrow cells from cancer treatments can result in aplastic anemia.
Management of aplastic anemia in cancer patients is complex and depends on the underlying cancer type, the severity of the aplastic anemia, and the patient’s overall health. Supportive care measures, such as blood transfusions, may be necessary to manage symptoms. In some cases, alternative cancer treatments or modifications to the treatment plan may be considered to minimize the risk of developing aplastic anemia. (10)
