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Dr.Ahlam AL-Buhairan
Anaemia
Definition:
Reduction in the haemoglobin concenration. Accompanied by a reduction in the RBC count and PCV (with some few exceptions). Values are below the lower limit of the normal range.
Anaemia
The haemoglobin concentration is determined by alterations in both total circulating plasma volume as well as of total circulating haemoglobin mass.
Thus a reduction in plasma volume in some cases (dehydration) may mask the anaemia.
Anaemia
On the other hand, an increase in plasma volume due to splenomegaly e.g. may cause anaemia even with normal values. fals positive Anaemia does not appear immediately when acute major blood loss occurs because the total blood volume has been reduced.
Signs&Symptoms
Symptoms:
Shortness of breath, weakness, lethargy, palpitation and headaches. In elderly, symptoms of cardiac failure, angina pectoris, confusionetc. Also, visual disturbances may occur because of retinal haemorrhages (very severe anaemia).
Signs
General:
Pallor of mucous membranes (Hb<9-10g/dl). Tachychardia, cardiomegaly, features of congestive heart failure.
Specific:
Associated with particular types of anaemia e.g koilonychia (spoon nails) with I.D.A., jaundice with H.A, leg ulcers with S.C.A
Classification of anaemia
Based on red cell indices divides the anaemia into:
1. Microcytic anaemia 2. Normocytic anaemia 3. Macrocytic anaemia
Microcytic anaemia
Microcytic,& hypochromic:
Red cell indices are below the normal range MCV <80 fl (80-95 fl) MCH <27 pg (27-34 pg) Iron deficiency anaemia, thalassaemia
Macrocytic anaemia
Macrocytic:
MCV >95 fl Megaloblastic anaemia; (deficiency of folate or vit B12) Liver disease, alcohol intake
Normocytic Anaemia
Normocytic& normochromic:
Red cell indices are within the normal range MCV 80-95 fl MCH 27-34 pg Haemolytic anaemia, B.M failure, after acute blood loss