Intro to Anemia 2 Flashcards
CBC Parameters
MCV
Mean cell volume
Useful in differential diagnosis of anemia (microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic)
MCH
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin
Average amount of hemoglobin per RBC
MCHC
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration
Measure of “chromicity” of RBCs
Hypochromic, Hyperchromic
RDW
Red cell distribution width
Measure of variability of red cell volume
Useful to separate anisocytotic anemias (Fe deficiency) from non-anisocytotic anemias (anemia or chronic disease)
Weakness/malaise, easy fatiguability
Tissue hypoxia
Marrow expansion with potential bony abnormalities
Increase RBC production
Pallor
Shunting of blood to vital areas
Tachycardia; cardiac ischemia (severe)
Increased CO
Dyspnea on exertion
Increased pulmonary function
Anemia of blood loss (acute)
Initially no anemia by CBC despite decreased blood volume
Anemia develops as fluid enters vascular space to restore blood volume –> dilutes cellular elements
Retic count increases after 2-3 days and peaks after 7-10 days
Anemia of blood loss (chronic)
Initially no anemia b/c the bone marrow is able to compensate
Slight reticulocytosis
Eventually develop Fe deficiency anemia
What is the blue-tinged cytolasm of reticulocytes caused by and what is this called?
Residual RNA
Polychromasia
What does the reticulocyte % help you differentiate between?
Anemias that have decreased RBC production and those with marrow response to blood loss or increased RBC destruction
What are some examples of pathologic states that have ineffective erythropoiesis?
Iron deficiency
Megaloblastic anemia
Myelodysplastic disorders
What are some things that may lead to a decreased RBC production?
Proliferation defect
Absolute decrease in marrow mass of erythroid precursors
