Aplasia is a medical term that refers to the absence or incomplete development of an organ, tissue, or body part. It can occur in various parts of the body and can be present at birth or develop later in life. Some types of aplasia include:
- Pure red cell aplasia: a condition where the bone marrow does not produce enough red blood cells.
- Aplasia cutis congenita: a rare condition where newborns have skin missing from parts of their body, and in some cases, the underlying structures beneath the skin, such as bone, may also not be present.
- Germ cell aplasia: a condition where the testes do not produce sperm cells.
- Radial aplasia: a condition where the radius bone in the forearm is missing or underdeveloped.
- Thymic aplasia: a condition where the thymus gland, which plays a role in the immune system, is absent or underdeveloped.
Aplasia can be caused by genetic factors, exposure to certain drugs or chemicals, infections, or other factors that affect fetal development. The symptoms of aplasia depend on the location and severity of the condition and can range from mild to life-threatening. A healthcare provider may diagnose aplasia through physical examination, imaging tests, or blood tests. Treatment options for aplasia depend on the type and severity of the condition and may include medication, surgery, or other therapies.