What Happens After Treatment for Aplastic Anemia
Frequent follow-up exams are needed for many years after treatment for aplastic anemia is finished. These follow-up visits are very important. The doctors will continue to watch your blood counts for signs of recurrent disease, as well as for short-term and long-term side effects of treatment. You should report any new symptoms to the doctor right away so that a relapse or side effects can be treated.
Health checkups include a careful physical examination and blood counts, as well as other necessary tests the doctor may want. If there is a return (relapse) of the aplastic anemia, it will usually happen in the first year after treatment. Another problem is that, occasionally, people with aplastic anemia are at increased risk for developing acute leukemia. It is useful to diagnose and treat leukemia as early as possible.
Another benefit of follow-up care is that it gives you a chance to discuss questions and concerns that can come up during and after your recovery.