A reduction in the hemoglobin and hematocrit affects the body defense mechanism, the body immunity becomes compromised, and some internal organs over work in compensation for the lack of oxygen resulting in anemia. Anemia is noted when the amount of red blood cells in our body decreases, as well as reduction in the number of the hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. The four classifications of anemia are, microcytic, macrocytic, normocytic, and hemolytic anemia. (Buttarro, Trybulski, Polgar Bailey, Sanberg-Cook 2013). The purpose of this discussion is to review microcytic anemia, which could be the cause of the decreased hemoglobin level in case study two.
Differential diagnosis:
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA): IDA is a common nutritional deficiency anemia found in women of reproductive age, and older adults due to gastrointestinal blood loss or menorrhagia (Buttarro, Trybulski, Polgar Bailey, Sanberg-Cook 2013). However, it can be corrected by eating iron fortified food or by taking iron supplements, in severe cases blood transfusions may be administered.
Thalassemia:
This is a hereditary blood disorder caused by a missing gene that affects hemoglobin production. Most thalassemia anemia …show more content…
A patient with a family history anemia needs to have a work up to find the kind. During a physical examination, a pale conjunctiva, palmar creases, and skin indicates anemia, also the nails becomes concave, ridged, and brittle (Huether, & McCance, 2012). The lab results indicate the severity of the anemia and the best treatment option. Considering the 28-year-old female in case study two, she is a vegetarian and may not be eating sufficient iron fortified food, or has a heavy period. Therefore, reviewing her meal plan, gynecological and family medical history, and the laboratory results will guide the health care provider on the appropriate treatment
Differential diagnosis:
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA): IDA is a common nutritional deficiency anemia found in women of reproductive age, and older adults due to gastrointestinal blood loss or menorrhagia (Buttarro, Trybulski, Polgar Bailey, Sanberg-Cook 2013). However, it can be corrected by eating iron fortified food or by taking iron supplements, in severe cases blood transfusions may be administered.
Thalassemia:
This is a hereditary blood disorder caused by a missing gene that affects hemoglobin production. Most thalassemia anemia …show more content…
A patient with a family history anemia needs to have a work up to find the kind. During a physical examination, a pale conjunctiva, palmar creases, and skin indicates anemia, also the nails becomes concave, ridged, and brittle (Huether, & McCance, 2012). The lab results indicate the severity of the anemia and the best treatment option. Considering the 28-year-old female in case study two, she is a vegetarian and may not be eating sufficient iron fortified food, or has a heavy period. Therefore, reviewing her meal plan, gynecological and family medical history, and the laboratory results will guide the health care provider on the appropriate treatment