Biochemical Tests 2: Microcytic Anaemia Flashcards
What is the main function of haemoglobin? (2)
Carries O2 to the tissues.
Returns CO2 from tissues.
What does a low Hb level indicate? (1)
Anaemia.
What factors do you need to consider to determine the cause of anaemia? (3)
MCV
HCT
RBC
Define RBC. (2)
Red Blood Cell:
Most abundant cell in the body.
Carries haemoglobin in the blood.
Define HCT. (1)
Haematocrit:
RBC proportion that makes the blood pool.
Define MCV. (1)
Mean Cell Volume:
The average size of RBC.
Define MCH. (1)
Average amount of Hb in RBC.
Define MCHC. (1)
Average Hb concentration inside an average sized cell.
What are the main features microcytic anaemia? (4)
Low:
RBC
Hb
HCT
MCV
What is the common cause of microcytic anaemia? (1)
Iron deficiency anaemia.
What are the causes of iron-deficiency anaemia? (3)
Inadequate diet
Malabsorption
Blood Loss i.e. Mennorhagia/GI bleed e.g. oesophagitis, peptic ulcer, carcinoma, colitis, diverticulitis/haemorrhoids.
*OSCE TIP: if patient does present with microcytic anaemia, always mentioned that you will need to rule out a GI bleed prior to giving iron supplements.
Explain the management of iron-deficiency anaemia (2)
Oral:
Iron supplements e.g. Ferrous sulphate 200mg OD (65mg elemental iron)
Continued until normal levels are reached and for 3 months after.
Parenteral:
For malabsorption e.g. Ferinject, Cosmofer.
How long would you expect to see an increase in Hb levels? (1)
Hb levels rise 20g/L over a 3-4 week period.
When would it be appropriate to recheck the patient’s Hb levels? (4)
After 4 weeks:
- Adequate response = continue and recheck FBC in 2-4 months.
- Inadequate = compliance, tolerance to medications.
- Poor = Refer after 2-4 weeks.
What needs to be checked if patient presents with iron deficiency anaemia? (1)
Take a thorough medication Hx, considering drugs that can increase the patient’s risk of bleeds e.g. warfarin and NSAIDs.
