Abstract

Aplastic anemia, a rare but serious hematological disorder characterized by bone marrow failure, has emerged as a recognized complication in individuals living with HIV/AIDS. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the clinical features and risk factors associated with the development of aplastic anemia in the context of HIV infection. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying aplastic anemia in individuals living with HIV remain incompletely understood but are believed to involve HIV-induced immunosuppression and dysregulation of the immune system. Direct viral toxicity, immune-mediated destruction of hematopoietic stem cells, and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines have been implicated in the pathogenesis of aplastic anemia. Clinical manifestations of aplastic anemia in individuals with HIV infection can vary widely, ranging from asymptomatic pancytopenia to severe cytopenias with life-threatening complications. Fatigue, weakness, pallor, mucosal bleeding, petechiae, and recurrent infections are common clinical features. Prompt recognition and intervention are essential to prevent further morbidity and mortality in severe cases of aplastic anemia, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and vigilance among healthcare providers caring for HIV-infected individuals. Several risk factors have been identified for the development of aplastic anemia in individuals living with HIV, including advanced HIV disease, low CD4 cell counts, high viral load, concomitant opportunistic infections, and exposure to myelosuppressive medications. Genetic predisposition and host immune factors may also influence susceptibility to aplastic anemia