Microcytic anaemia Flashcards
1
Q
Define microcytic anaemia
A
anaemia associated with a low MCV
2
Q
causes of microcytic anaemia?
A
- Iron Deficiency
- Anaemia of Chronic Disease
- Thalassemia
- Sideroblastic Anaemia
- Lead poisoning
3
Q
most common cause ?
A
- Iron Deficiency
- Blood loss (e.g. GI)
- Reduced absorption (e.g. small bowel disease)
- Increased demands (e.g. growth, pregnancy)
- Reduced intake (e.g. vegans)
4
Q
symptoms of microcytic anaemia?
A
• Non-Specific o Tiredness o Lethargy o Malaise o Dyspnoea o Pallor o Exacerbation of ischaemic conditions
5
Q
signs of microcytic anaemia?
A
• Signs of anaemia
o Pallor
o Brittle nails and hair
o Koilonychia (if severe)
6
Q
what is the first line investigation?
A
o FBC • Low Hb • Low MCV • Reticulocytes o Serum iron (low in iron deficiency) o Total iron binding capacity (high in iron deficiency) o Serum ferritin (low in iron deficiency) o Anti-TTG antibodies (coeliac disease)
7
Q
what is the second line investigation?
A
• Blood Film o Iron deficiency anaemia: • Microcytic • Hypochromic • Anisocytosis • Poikilocytosis
8
Q
what does Hb electrophoresis look for?
A
o Checking for haemoglobin variants and thalassemia
9
Q
what should be done in this case?
men of any age with Hb below 110g/L
A
o 2WW
o Colonoscopy
o Upper and lower GI endoscopy
10
Q
how should iron deficiency be managed?
A
o oral in supplements
