Conditions connected with aplastic anaemia

There are some other conditions that are closely connected to aplastic anaemia. Some people diagnosed with aplastic anaemia may be diagnosed with these conditions too.

Genetic causes of aplastic anaemia

You may be given genetic testing when you receive an aplastic anaemia diagnosis, to determine whether one of these conditions might be the cause. Or if you are already aware that you have one of these conditions, you may have an increased likelihood of developing aplastic anaemia at some point.

These ultra rare genetic conditions include:

· Dyskeratosis congenita

· Fanconi anaemia

· Shwachman Diamond Syndrome

Other connected conditions

Aplastic anaemia can also be connected to Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria (PNH) or other blood conditions. If you have aplastic anaemia, you may be more likely to develop these conditions than someone who has not. People who have received a stem cell transplant to treat aplastic anaemia may also be at risk of developing a condition called GvHD (Graft versus Host Disease.)

Only a small percentage of people with aplastic anaemia will go on to develop these conditions, and this is one of the reasons your healthcare team will continue to monitor you after you have been treated for aplastic anaemia - so these conditions can be diagnosed and treated early if they develop.