Haem: Haematology Quiz

Question 1

For each of the following blood cell parameters, state the normal range:

1. Haemoglobin
2. Mean Cell Volume
3. Platelets
4. White Blood Cells
5. Neutrophils
6. Lymphocytes

Answer 1

1. Haemoglobin
   
   • Men: 135-180 g/L
   • Women: 115-160 g/L
2. Mean Cell Volume
   
   • 82-100 fL
3. Platelets
   
   • 150-400 x 10⁹/L
4. White Blood Cells
   
   • 4-11 x 10⁹/L
5. Neutrophils
   
   • 2-7 x 10⁹/L
6. Lymphocytes
   
   • 1-3 x 10⁹/L

Question 2

Outline the mechanisms by which anaemia of chronic disease causes anaemia.

Answer 2

• Reduced red cell lifespan
• Cytokine release (IFN-gamma, IL1, TNF)
• Reduced proliferation of erythroid precursors
• Suppression of endogenous EPO production
• Impaired iron utilisation

Question 3

How is anaemia of chronic disease treated?

Answer 3

• Treat underlying disease
• Recombinant EPO
• Transfusion may be considered in severe cases

Question 4

Describe the typical ferritin and transferrin levels you’d expect to see in anaemia of chronic disease.

Answer 4

• Ferritin - high or normal (acute phase protein)
• Transferrin - reduced

Question 5

Which HLA genotype is associated with Hodgkin lymphoma?

Answer 5

HLA-DPB1

NOTE: EBV is found in >79% of people over 50 years

Question 6

How is Hodgkin lympoma investigated?

Answer 6

• Histopathological review
• ESR for prognosis and monitoring
• CT/MRI/PET for staging