Csontvelszuppresszió

Csontvelszuppresszió refers to the suppression or inhibition of bone marrow activity. Bone marrow is a spongy tissue found within bones that is responsible for producing blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. When bone marrow activity is suppressed, the production of these essential cells can be significantly reduced.

There are several reasons why csontvelszuppresszió might occur. It can be a side effect of certain medications, particularly chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer. These drugs are designed to kill rapidly dividing cells, and unfortunately, bone marrow cells also divide rapidly, making them susceptible to damage. Radiation therapy, another cancer treatment, can also lead to bone marrow suppression.

Other causes include certain viral infections, autoimmune diseases where the body's immune system attacks its own bone marrow, and exposure to toxins. In some cases, the cause of bone marrow suppression may be idiopathic, meaning it is unknown.

The consequences of csontvelszuppresszió depend on which blood cell types are most affected. A reduction in red blood cells leads to anemia, causing fatigue and weakness. A decrease in white blood cells, known as leukopenia or neutropenia, compromises the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Low platelet counts, or thrombocytopenia, can result in easy bruising and bleeding. Severe bone marrow suppression can be life-threatening and may require treatments such as blood transfusions or bone marrow transplantation.