Hematology

Question 1

What are the features of Thalasemmia

Answer 1

Microcytic (MCV <60)
Normal Ferritin, Normal Transferritin, Normal TBIC
Common in Mediterranean People

Question 2

Is von Willebrand Disease a Clotting Disorder or Bleeding Disorder

Answer 2

Bleeding Disorder

Lack vWF which is part of clotting cascade, without vWF you can’t clot, so you bleed

Question 3

What is Coomb’s Test

Answer 3

Detects antibodies on the red cell membrane (Direct Coombs) or in the serum (indirect Coombs)
It confirms immune-related hemolysis

Question 4

What is Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (IPT)

Answer 4

Post-viral infection, usually URI, leads to bleeding, hemorrhages seen especially over shins and ankles
Lesions don’t blanch with pressure
Tx: Dexamethosone or Prednisone, IVIG is 2nd line

Question 5

What is Polycythemia Vera

Answer 5

A bone marrow disorder with increased RBC and total blood volume
Dx: JAK2 mutation, Thrombocytosis, Leukocytosis, Neutrophilic Leukocytosis
Sx: Headache, dizziness, fullness in head and face, tinnitus, pruritis, increased viscosity of blood
Tx: Phlebotomy, Mydroxyurea to suppressive Myeloid, Low dose ASA for thrombosis

Question 6

What is Polycythemia Vera

Answer 6

A bone marrow disorder with increased RBC and total blood volume
Dx: JAK2 mutation, Thrombocytosis, Leukocytosis, Neutrophilic Leukocytosis
Sx: Headache, dizziness, fullness in head and face, tinnitus, pruritis, increased viscosity of blood, Splenomegaly
Tx: Phlebotomy, Mydroxyurea to suppressive Myeloid, Low dose ASA for thrombosis

Question 7

What is Pancytopenia

Answer 7

Low levels of all 3 blood cell types

• RBC
• WBC
• Platelets

Question 8

Where do you see Pancytopenia

Answer 8

Aplastic Anemia

Question 9

What are features of Pernicious Anemia

Answer 9

Common in Gastric Bypass Surgery
Affects peripheral nerves
Paresthesias, balance issues
Decreased vibratory sense