Module 3 Flashcards
MCV means?
mean cell volume; the average volume of a RBC.
Determines if an anemia is normocytic, microcytic, or macrocytic
MCH means?
mean cell Hb; the average mass of Hb per RBC (Hb per cell – this will change depending on size of RBC – bigger RBC will generally have more Hb).
Determines how much Hb is in a RBC
MCHC
mean cell Hb concentration; the average concentration of Hb in a given volume of packed RBC.
Determines if a RBC is hypochromic, normochromic, or hyperchromic
RDW
red cell distribution width; measure of variation of RBC volume, higher value = more variation in size
Signs and symptoms of anemia
Fatigue/Weakness/Dizzy Pallor SOB/Dyspnea Chest pain/Arrhythmias/Tachycardia Orthostatic hypotension or syncope Cold hands and feet Nail changes Decreased growth and development Neurological S/S (Vitamin B12 deficiency) Mild anemia may only cause S/S during exertion due to compensation
Causes of anemia
1) Loss of RBC’s - blood loss, acute & chronic
2) Decreased or abnormal production of RBC’s – due to deficiency of raw materials (Fe, Folate, B12)
3) Increased destruction of RBC’s - hemolytic anemias (sickle cell, thalassemias, etc.)
Anemia of acute blood loss
- Bleeding
- Trauma, peptic ulcer, hemorrhoids, GI bleed
- Hct (% FORMED ELEMENTS BY VOLUME) is low due to hemodilution-shift of fluid from the interstitial space into circulation to compensate for blood loss
- Normocytic, Normochromic anemia
Production of EPO by the kidneys
- Increased reticulocyte (immature RBC’s) count after 1 week
polycythemia
Excess in RBC in circulation
How are anemias classified by size?
Normocytic
Microcytic
Macrocytic
How are anemias classified by hemoglobin content?
Hyperchromic (really red)
Normochromic (normal red hue)
Hypochromic (pale)
Central Symptoms of anemia
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Fainting (in severe anemia)
Blood vessel symptoms of anemia
Low blood pressure
Heart symptoms of anemia
- Palpitations
- Rapid heart rate
- Chest pain (severe anemia)
- Angina (severe anemia)
- Heart attack (severe anemia)
Spleen symptoms of anemia
Enlargement
Intestinal symptoms of anemia
Changed stool color