What is the first treatment for aplastic anaemia?

Aplastic anaemia is bone marrow failure: the marrow does not make enough red cells, white cells, or platelets. The team confirms the diagnosis with blood tests and often a marrow examination, then assesses infection risk, bleeding, transfusion needs, overall health, and whether a suitable donor exists. For a person who can undergo transplant and has an appropriate donor, an [Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant](/treatments/cellular-and-transplant-therapy/allogeneic-stem-cell-transplant/) may be considered as a disease-directed treatment. Others may need immune-suppressing treatment and close specialist monitoring.

Keep every haematology appointment and follow instructions about infection prevention, temperature checks, and medicines. [Blood Transfusion Support](/treatments/cellular-and-transplant-therapy/blood-transfusion-support/) can replace blood cells or platelets when clinically needed, but it does not correct the marrow problem itself. Ask whether you need donor testing, vaccination advice, medication changes, or precautions around crowded places and raw foods. Do not start supplements or stop prescribed medicines without discussing them with the haematology team.

A low white-cell count can make infection become serious quickly. Contact your care team urgently for a fever, chills, new cough, sore throat, burning urine, or feeling suddenly unwell. Seek emergency help for uncontrolled bleeding, black stools, severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, or new confusion. Use the fever threshold given by your team because local instructions may differ.

How severe is my marrow failure? Am I a candidate for transplant, and how would donor matching be assessed? When would transfusion support be needed? Which infection or bleeding signs require immediate contact?