5.1 Anemia Flashcards
1
Q
What is the basic definition of anemia?
A
Reduced circulating RBC mass
2
Q
SSx of anemia
A
These are essentially the signs of hypoxia:
Weakness, fatigue, dyspnea
Pale conjunctiva and skin
Headache and lightheadedness
Angina, especially with pre-existing CAD
3
Q
What are the definitions of anemia in terms of Hb in males and females?
A
Males less than 13.5 g/dL
Females less than 12.5 g/dL
4
Q
What are the definitions of Microcytic, Normocytic, and Macrocytic based on MCV?
A
Micro: less than 80
Normal: 80-100
Macro: over 100
5
Q
Why are Hb, HCT, and RBC count imperfect measures of anemia?
A
They are concentration dependent
A person losing lots of blood may have normal values
A person well hydrated may have low values, etc
