Pure Red Cell Aplasia

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is a rare life-threatening hematological disorder characterized by anemia, reticulocytopenia, and absence or marked reduction of erythroid precursors in bone marrow. For effective management, it important to explore cause of PRCA as it may be congenital or acquired due to autoimmune disorders, lymphoproliferative disorders, infections like Parvovirus B19, thymoma, drugs, etc. In this chapter, a clinical case scenario is presented followed by a step-by-step evidence-based approach to utilize specialized and advanced tests to unravel final diagnosis of PRCA. A comprehensive description of pathophysiology of disease, differentiation of PRCA from other conditions such as hypoplastic MDS, bone marrow failure syndromes, autoimmune myelofibrosis, PNH, etc are discussed in question – answer format. Salient points are summarized for quick revision. To gain expertise in this topic and enhance your diagnostic skills for effective planning of management, read this chapter on PRCA.