Anaemia 2 Flashcards
1
Q
How can one have anaemia?
A
- RBC are normal but blood loss resulting in decreased haemoglobin
- Abnormal RBCs (hereditary disease or autoimmune)
2
Q
what does MCV mean?
A
Mean cell/corpuscular volume
3
Q
What is microcytic anaemia?
A
Smaller RBC than normal
4
Q
What is macrocytic anemia?
A
Larger RBC than normal
5
Q
What is normocytic anemia?
A
Normal RBC size but reduced haem in blood
6
Q
What is a Hypochromic RBC?
A
RBC under a microscope
- Paler, Hypo (less) Chromic (colour) due to less haemoglobin in rbc
7
Q
What can macrocytosis in a RBC indicate?
A
That the RBC hasnt fully matured yet
8
Q
What is a reticulocyte?
A
A premature RBC released in circulation (if needed) which contains enough haemoglobin to function
9
Q
What are clinical signs and symptoms of anaemia?
A
Signs:
- Pale
- Tachycardia (increased HR trying to counter reduced oxygen in blood)
Symptoms:
- Tired/weak
- Dizzy
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations (due to increased HR)
10
Q
How can you investigate anaemia?
A
- Full blood count
If GI blood loss
- endoscopy
- Check renal function
- LAST RESORT*
- bone marrow exam (invasive)
11
Q
How can anaemia be treated?
A
- Stop any bleeding if present
- Replace the haematinics
12
Q
what is a haematinic?
A
Nutrients needed to produce a RBC
