Module 4: Normocytic Anemias

Question 1

Define Pancytopenia:

Answer 1

Decreased numbers of all cellular elements in the blood

Question 2

The basic defect in aplastic anemia is:

Answer 2

A group of disorders characterized by depletion of cellular elements and fatty replacement of the bone marrow. A decrease in production of erythrocytes, leukocytes and thrombocytes leads to pancytopenia.

Question 3

What is the most common congenital (hereditary) form of Aplastic anemia:

Answer 3

Fanconi’s anemia

Question 4

Secondary causes of Aplastic anemia include:

Answer 4

Ionizing radiation
Insecticides
Chemical agents: Benzene, TNT, Arsenic
Drugs: Antimicrobials (Chloramphenicol); Analgesics (Phenylbutazone)
Infections

Question 5

The appearance of the bone marrow in aplastic anemia is:

Answer 5

Hypocellular (Hypoplasia)

Question 6

Lab Findings in Aplastic Anemia:

Answer 6

RBC Count decreased

Hct. decreased

Hb. decreased

Reticulocyte Count decreased or normal

WBC Count decreased

WBC Diff: neutropenia, relative lymphocytosis

PLT Count decreased

Blood Film: Pancytopenia

BONE MARROW: Hypoplasia

EPO increased

Bleeding Time increased

Question 7

Post Hemorrhagic Anemia:

Answer 7

Up to 24hrs-no anemia, HGB,HCT,RBC normal

Acute Blood Loss 24-72hrs-normochromic/normocytic anemia,

HGB, HCT, RBC decreased

> 72hrs-anemia with regeneration=increased polychromasia