C1. RBC anemia

Question 1

What is plasma composed of

Answer 1

Carrier proteins: Albumins (pH buffer & osmotic P) Globulin: antibodies
Clotting proteins - prothrombin & fibrinogen
Enzymes, hormones, others
Nutrients: glucose, FA, aa, cholesterol, vitamins
Electrolytes: Na+, K+, Ca+, Mg+, Cl-, phosphate, sulfate, bicarbonate, others (inorganic substances)

(N.B. Serum is plasma with fibrinogen and other clotting proteins removed)

Question 2

Describe Haematologic functions of liver

Answer 2

Liver synthesis plasma proteins including clotting factors & albumin
Liver clears damaged & non-functioning RBCs/erythrocytes from circulation

Question 3

Describe functions of spleen

Answer 3

Hematopoietic function
Produces fetal RBCs
Filters & reuses certain cells (particularly heme component) 
Immune function: lymphocytes, monocytes
Storage: 30% platelets stored in spleen

Question 4

Describe affects of aging on the Haematologic System

Answer 4

WBC
- ↓ Hemoglobin (Hb or Hgb)
- ↓ response to infection 
- Platelets = no change 
Clotting Studies
- ↓ PTT (partial thromboplastin time)

Question 5

Define

1. Erythropoiesis

2. Role of Erythropoietin

Answer 5

1. Synthesis of RBC in red bone marrow

2. triggers differentiation of stem cells to erythrocytes.(released by kidney)

Question 6

Define Anaemia

• what does it result in

- drives which conditions

Answer 6

A reduction in the number of RBCs, the quantity of haemoglobin, or the volume of RBCs

• varrying degrees of hypoxia
• ischemic pathology

Question 7

Describe classifications of anemia

Answer 7

1. Normocytic: MCV = 80-100fL
2. Macrocytic: MCV > 100 fL
3. Microcytic : MCV < 80 fL

Question 8

Describe how Iron Deficiency Anemia arises

Answer 8

Inadequate dietary intake
Malabsorption: in duodenum
Blood loss
Haemolysis

Question 9

Name Clinical Manifestations of Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Answer 9

Pallor
Glossistis: inflammation of the tongue
Cheilitis: inflammation/ fissures of lips
Sensitivity to cold
Weakness & fatigue

Question 10

Name Diagnostic Studies of Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Answer 10

WBC
Iron studies Diagnostics:
Iron levels: Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) (will likely rise), Serum Ferritin (likely low)
Endoscopy/Colonscopy

Question 11

Define Megaloblastic Anaemias & common forms

Answer 11

Characterized by large RBCs which are fragile and easily destroyed (MCV>100)
1. Cobalamin deficiency (B12) - arises as loss of intrinsic factor (IF) production (required for absorption)
Also known as pernicious anaemia
2. Folic acid deficiency
- fa is required for RBC formation and maturation

Question 12

Define Anaemia of Chronic Disease

• how does it arise

- what does it cause

Answer 12

Underproduction of RBCs, shortening of RBC survival
~develops after 1-2 months of sustained disease
Causes
- Impaired renal function
- Chronic, inflammatory, infectious or malignant disease
- Chronic liver disease
- Folic acid deficiencies
- Splenomegaly
- Hepatitis