What is the medical condition treated with Antithymocyte globulin?

Antithymocyte globulin (ATG) is an immunosuppressive agent derived from animal serum and is primarily used in the treatment of aplastic anaemia. Aplastic anaemia is a condition characterized by the failure of the bone marrow to produce adequate amounts of blood cells, leading to pancytopenia (a reduction in red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets). In this context, ATG works by depleting T-lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell), which are often implicated in the autoimmune response that damages the bone marrow and contributes to the development of aplastic anaemia.

Using ATG in the treatment of aplastic anaemia aims to suppress the pathological immune response that is thought to cause bone marrow failure, allowing for the recovery of hematopoiesis (blood cell production) and improving blood counts in affected individuals. This potential to reverse the underlying autoimmunity and restore bone marrow function is what makes ATG a standard treatment for this specific condition.

In contrast, the other medical conditions listed do not have antithymocyte globulin as a primary treatment modality. Chronic kidney disease generally requires management of renal function and related complications without the use of ATG. Hyperthyroidism often