Red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets are all produced within the bone marrow. Pancytopenia is a disorder that affects all of these cells. It can be caused by toxins, tumors and infections.
Causes of Pancytopenia
The bone marrow may be affected by drugs, such as chemotherapy drugs, certain antibiotics and anticonvulsants. Radiation exposure can lead to bone marrow destruction. Tumors that occur within the bone marrow or metastatic tumors to the bone marrow can affect bone marrow production. Some insecticides, solvents and hair sprays can produce similar results.
Signs and Symptoms of Pancytopenia
The symptoms reflect the lack of specific blood cells. Decreased platelets result in bleeding and easy bruising. Nose bleeds, rectal bleeding and excessive menstrual bleeding may occur. Decreased red cells leads to anemia. This causes pallor, weakness and occasionally shortness of breath. There may also be rapid heart rate. When the white cells are deficient, recurrent or unusual infections may occur.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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