Basics of Anemia

Alteration in Erythrocytes

• Normal RBC count is 12- 18 g/dL

• Polycythemias- too many cells

• Anemias- too few cells

• Polycythemias and Anemias are r/t erythropoiesis that is directed by erythropoietin

(hormone released by kidney when low oxygen is sensed)

• RBC production (Erythropoiesis) is determined by

o Low oxygen

o Perfusion to the kidneys

o Amount of erythropoietin

• Important vitamins need to make RBCs

o Vitamin B12 and Folic acid

• Important for development of hemoglobin

o Iron

Anemia

• Reduction in the

o total # of erythrocytes circulating OR

o in the quality OR quantity of hemoglobin

• Causes

o Impaired RBC production

o Bleeding; acute or chronic

o Increased RBC destruction

▪ Hereditary hemolysis (breakdown or RBC)

• Sickle cell trait or disease

▪ Acquired hemolysis

• Immune mechanisms (blood transfusion reaction)

o Antibodies from donor’s blood attack recipient’s RBCs

• Infection

o Malaria, clostridial

• Drugs

o Quinidine, penicillin, methyldopa

• Liver or kidney disease

• Toxins

o Chemical, venoms

• Classifications

o Etiologic factor (cause)

o Size