Microcytic anaemia

Question 1

What is microcytic anaemia?

Answer 1

Anaemia with smaller than normal cells

Question 2

What are the risk factors of microcytic anaemia?

Answer 2

lead toxicity
copper deficiency
zinc excess, which causes copper deficiency
alcohol use
drug use
Menorrhagia
Bleeding
Hereditary thalassaemia
Chronic diseases

Question 3

What are the signs and symptoms of microcytic anaemia?

Answer 3

fatigue, weakness, and tiredness
loss of stamina
shortness of breath
dizziness
pale skin

Question 4

What is the epidemiology of microcytic anaemia?

Answer 4

According to epidemiologic data from World Health Organization (WHO), 24.8% of the human population is currently suffering from anemia out of which a major portion is due to iron deficiency anemia.

Question 5

What investigations would you do for microcytic anaemia?

Answer 5

> FBC
Peripheral blood smear
Abdo US/ OGD/ CT abdo

Question 6

What is the management of microcytic anaemia?

Answer 6

Iron and vitamin C supplements

Treat underlying cause

Question 7

What are the complications of microcytic anaemia?

Answer 7

low blood pressure, also called hypotension
coronary artery problems
pulmonary problems
shock

Question 8

What is the prognosis of microcytic anaemia?

Answer 8

Treatment can be relatively straightforward if simple nutrient deficiencies are the cause of microcytic anemia. As long as the underlying cause of the anemia can be treated, the anemia itself can be treated and even cured.

Question 9

What are the types of microcytic anaemia?

Answer 9

> Iron deficiency anaemia (low iron)
Thalassaemia (lack of beta chain)
Anaemia of Chronic disease (normchromic) (may also be normocytic)