Anemias Flashcards
Caused by vitamin B12 deficiency (lack of intrinsic factor), which often accompanies the end stage of type A chronic atrophic gastritis –> patient w/ history of gastric ulcers/PID is common
(Macrolytic-Normochromic)
Pernicious anemia
Results from inadequate dietary folate intake (folate helps to make RBCs). This condition commonly occurs in individuals w/ a history of alcohol abuse and individuals who are malnourished
(Macrolytic-Normochromic)
Folic acid deficiency anemia
Macrolytic-Normochromic Anemias
Megaloblasts (unusually large stem cells) in the bone marrow that mature into erythrocytes that are unusually large in size (macrocytic), thickness, and volume. The hemoglobin content is normal, thus allowing them to be classified as normochromic. These anemias are the result of ineffective erythrocyte DNA synthesis, commonly caused by deficiencies of vitamin B12 or folate.
Inadequate intake of iron most commonly due to poor dietary conditions and malnutrition, although gastric and intestinal disorders can occasionally limit iron absorption. Increased demand for iron also occurs during infancy and pregnancy
(Microcytic-Hypochromic)
Iron deficiency anemia
Characterized by inadequate cellular iron uptake (iron stores) in the bone marrow and disordered DNA synthesis w/ resultant microcytic-hypochromic erythrocyte formation
(Microcytic-Hypochromic)
Sideroblastic anemia
Hemoglobin A dysfunctional synthesis; common in those of Mediterranean descent or through family
(Microcytic-Hypochromic)
Thalassemia
Microcytic-Hypochromic
Disorders that affect erythropoiesis result not only in decreased numbers of erythrocytes but also in a change in their morphologic appearance. Results from low hemoglobin and/or inadequate dietary intake or malabsorption.
Refers to a condition that arises (often by chemotherapy) from a failure of the bone marrow stem cells.
–> Pancytopenia = All types of blood cells low across the board
(Normocytic-Normochromic)
Aplastic anemia
Hemorrhage causes acute anemia through the sudden loss of blood with normal iron stores –> RBC quantity low because of bleeding
(Normocytic-Normochromic)
Posthemorrhagic anemia
Characterized by premature destruction of RBCs. Can be either inherited or acquired.
–> Autoimmune disorders, wrong blood transfusion; elevated reticulocytes
(Normocytic-Normochromic)
Hemolytic anemia
AKA “anemia of chronic inflammation.” Occurs in association w/ underlying inflammatory conditions, such as chronic infections (ex: HIV, hepatitis, or rheumatologic diseases)
–> Comes secondary to another disorder
(Normocytic-Normochromic)
Anemia of Chronic Disease
Normocytic-Normochromic
The erythrocytes are of relatively normal size and hemoglobin content but insufficient in number. Some of these anemias are the result of hemolysis of erythrocytes and may be characterized by specific abnormal red cell shapes.
Excessive erythrocyte production; can be primary, secondary, or familial in etiology. May represent compensatory mechanisms to physiologic stress or may be the result of abnormal myeloproliferation of bone marrow stem cells
–> COPD: compensatory; –> High altitudes = more O2 carrying capacity; –> Risk = clotting (stroke)
Polycythemia
One of the most important inherited types of hemolytic anemia; An autosomal recessive disorder that causes an abnormality in hemoblobin synthesis
–> Blockage, pain; –> Therapy: O2 replacement, IV fluid, blood transfusion
Sickle cell disease
Which test is used for pernicious anemia?
Schilling Test & low vitamin B12
Which test is used for hemolytic anemia?
Folate levels
Which tests are used for iron deficiency anemia?
Iron levels and TIBC (total iron binding capacity)
