Anemia can be a sign of systemic illness. Because it is never normal, the cause for it should be sought when it is present in the patient. Is a common finding in a family practice office that is sometimes straightforward in nature, but perplexing at other times. There are numerous processes that can result in anemia. You can result from decreased production of red blood cells which is seen in nutrient deficiencies such as low B12 levels and iron levels, bone marrow disorders, suppression of bone marrow, and hormone imbalances as seen in renal failure, hypothyroidism, and hypogonadism. Destruction of red blood cells sooner than their typical 100 daily life span can also result in anemia and is defined as no lytic anemia. Blood loss also
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These include disorders of the bone marrow as well as chronic diseases such as renal failure, liver disease, and endocrine disorders.
Evaluation of patients with normocytic anemia would include a thorough history and physical to assess for the presence of processes that could lead to anemia. History would include assessment for changes in appetite, unexpected weight changes, fever, presence of night sweats which could indicate problems such as infection or malignancies. Further questioning would look for the potential of blood loss such as blood in the stools or urine, dark or tarry stools, or recent trauma. The timing of anemia is also important with new onset anemia typically representing an acquired disorder, whereas long-standing anemia is can be the result of an inherited disorder.
Simple blood tests can be useful in assessing for the cause of normocytic anemia. Metabolic panel would demonstrate whether proper kidney function was present. Testing could be done to be sure thyroid function is normal. A reticulocyte count could be done to assess for appropriate bone marrow response to
These include disorders of the bone marrow as well as chronic diseases such as renal failure, liver disease, and endocrine disorders.
Evaluation of patients with normocytic anemia would include a thorough history and physical to assess for the presence of processes that could lead to anemia. History would include assessment for changes in appetite, unexpected weight changes, fever, presence of night sweats which could indicate problems such as infection or malignancies. Further questioning would look for the potential of blood loss such as blood in the stools or urine, dark or tarry stools, or recent trauma. The timing of anemia is also important with new onset anemia typically representing an acquired disorder, whereas long-standing anemia is can be the result of an inherited disorder.
Simple blood tests can be useful in assessing for the cause of normocytic anemia. Metabolic panel would demonstrate whether proper kidney function was present. Testing could be done to be sure thyroid function is normal. A reticulocyte count could be done to assess for appropriate bone marrow response to