Anaemia Flashcards
Define Macrocytic anaemia.
Anaemia is lack of haemoglobin. Macrocytic refers to RBCs that are too large.
Define Microcytic anaemia.
The presence of small, often hypochromic RBC’s in peripheral blood smear. Low MCV <80 fl
Define Normocytic anaemia
Normal sized blood cells but there are a low number of them.
Define Hypochromic anaemia
Any anaemia where the blood cells are paler than normal. Hypo means less and chromic refers to colour
Define Hyperchromic anaemia
An anaemia with an increase of haemoglobin in individual RBC’s and reduction in the number of cells.
Define Normochromic anaemia
The concentration of haemoglobin in RBC’s is in the normal range but there are insufficient numbers of RBCs.
What is Anaemia?
“The inability of the blood to carry enough oxygen to meet the body’s needs” (Ross & Wilson, 2014, p73)
What are the average daily iron requirements for men, women & children?
Men 1-2mg
Women 3mg
Children require more than adults
List the characteristics of RBC in Iron deficiency Anaemia
RBC Count often normal
RBC are small, pale and of variable size
RBC often contain less haemoglobin than normal
Why might Iron deficiency anaemia occur?
Deficient intake (either not enough or higher than normal demand) Poor absorption from alimentary tract
What is Pernicious Anaemia?
An autoimmune disorder which leads to a B12 deficiency.
Other than an autoimmune disease what are the other reasons for a B12 deficiency?
Gastroectomy
Chronic Gastritis
Malabsorption
What is a result of a folic acid or B12 deficiency?
It can lead to a megoblastic anaemia
What are megoblastic Erythorcytes?
Red blood cells that are larger than normal?
Why does folic acid or B12 deficiency result in megablastic erythrocytes?
Rate of DNA & RNA synthesis is reduced delaying cell division. Cells therefore grow larger and some are nucleated.
What is the average life span of a megoblastic RBC?
40-50 days
When would Haemolytic anaemia occur?
RBCs destroyed or removed prematurely
What type of anaemia is sickle cell?
Congenital haemolytic