Introduction to Anaemia Flashcards
What is the definition of Anaemia?
Low total red cell mass
How can anaemia be measured?
Haemoglobin
Haematocrit
How is Hb measured? (Not sure if important?)
Burst the red cells so Hb in solution
Stabilise Hb molecules
Measure optical density at 540nm
OD is proportional to concentration
How is Haematocrit measured?
Ratio of whole blood that is red cells if sample is left to settle?
When are Hb and Hct not sufficient?
Rapid bleed of 50% of blood volume
Plasma expansion
What is the natural body response to anaemia?
Increased red cell (reticulocyte) production
What are reticulocytes?
Red cells that have just left the marrow
Bigger than erythrocytes
What other blood tests can be done for anaemia?
FBC
Blood film
Reticulocyte count
How can someone become anaemic?
Decreased production - Hypoproliferative - Maturation abnormality Increased loss or destruction - Bleeding -Haemolysis
What are the 2 practical types of anaemia based on MCV?
Macrocytic (Increased MCV)
MIcrocytic (Decreased MCV)
What is macrocytic anaemia suggestive of?
Maturation problem
What is microcytic anaemia suggestive of?
Haemoglobin problem
What is haemoglobin made from?
Globins
Haem
-Iron (Fe2+)
Porphyrin ring
What happens when there is a shortage of HB?
Microcytic and hypochromatic (pale) cells
What can cause a Hb shortage?
Haem deficiency - Iron deficiency -Chronic disease Problems with porphyrin synthesis - Lead poisoning Globin deficiency -Thalassaemia