Red cell aplasia can be caused by :
**Core Concept**
Red cell aplasia, also known as pure red cell aplasia, is a rare disorder characterized by the failure of the bone marrow to produce erythrocytes (red blood cells). This condition can be caused by various factors, including autoimmune mechanisms, viral infections, and certain medications.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **C. Parvovirus B19**. Parvovirus B19 is a common viral infection that can cause transient aplastic crisis in individuals with underlying hemolytic diseases, such as sickle cell anemia. In some cases, the virus can persist and cause chronic red cell aplasia. This is due to the virus's ability to infect erythroid progenitor cells, leading to their destruction and subsequent failure of the bone marrow to produce new red blood cells.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because while certain medications can cause bone marrow suppression, they are not the primary cause of red cell aplasia.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because while autoimmune disorders can cause red cell aplasia, they are not the most common cause.
* **Option D:** This option is incorrect because while certain genetic disorders can affect erythropoiesis, they are not the primary cause of red cell aplasia.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Parvovirus B19 infection can cause a range of clinical manifestations, from mild rash and arthralgia to severe anemia and red cell aplasia. It is essential to consider this virus in the differential diagnosis of patients with unexplained anemia or red cell aplasia.
**Correct Answer: C. Parvovirus B19**