Hypochromic Microcytic Anaemia Flashcards
1
Q
signs and symptoms of anaemia
A
- tiredness
- pallor
- shortness of breath
- chest pains
2
Q
signs and symptoms specific for the causes of anaemia
A
- weight loss
- bleeding out of orifices
- altered bowel habit
- abdominal pain or fullness
- diet
3
Q
what to look out for in a clinical examination of anaemia?
A
- conjunctival pallor
- inflammation of the angle of the mouth
- gingivitis
- specific signs: brittle nails
- bleeding
4
Q
which investigations indicate that an anaemia is of the microcytic and hypochromic type?
A
- low MCV
- low MCH
5
Q
causes of microcytic hypochromic anaemia
A
- diet
- bleeding disorder
- blood loss
- anticoagulants/antiplayelet agents
- GI malignancy
- malabsorption
6
Q
what other investigations can you do to determine the cause?
A
- serum ferritin (low would signify Fe-deficiency anaemia)
- iron profile
- serum transferrin
- total iron binding capacity
7
Q
which factors increase iron absorption?
A
- acidic pH
- Vitamin C
8
Q
which factors decrease iron absorption?
A
- bran
- tannates
9
Q
characteristics of Fe deficiency
A
- depletion of Fe stores
- Fe-deficient erythropoiesis
- Fe-deficiency anaemia
10
Q
features of sideroblastic anaemia
A
- refractory anaemia
- variable numbers of hypochromic cells
- excess iron in the marrow
11
Q
causes of sideroblastic anaemia
A
- inherited
- secondary as a complication of anti-TB therapy
- secondary to alcoholism
12
Q
what is anaemia of chronic diseases associated with?
A
- chronic infections
- chronic inflammatory disorders
- malignancy
