Anemia

The word anemia is derived from Greek word ‘anaimia’ meaning lack of blood. Anemia in general refers to decreased number of red blood cells (RBC’s) or it can be lea than normal hemoglobin count in the human blood. The oxygen binding capacity of each and every hemoglobin molecules are decreased because of deformation or numerical development is lacking similar to other types of hemoglobin deficiency. Hemoglobin usually carries oxygen molecule right from the lungs to the tissues, as the number of oxygen transport is reduced inside the cells they may lead to hypoxia. Almost all cells depend on transport of oxygen for its own survival, anemia effect varies from individual to individual and it has a wide range of clinical consequences. It is one of the most common disorders in humans.

The anemia can be broadly classified based on

• Morphology of the red blood cells
• Etiologic mechanism
• Clinical spectra

Types of Anemia:

Anemia is subdivided in to three major classes as follows.

• Hemorrhage : Excessive loss of blood
• Hemolysis: Excessive destruction of blood cells
• Hematopoiesis: Deficient production of red blood cells

Approach for Anemia:

Following are two major approaches

• Kinetic: This approach evaluates synthesis, destruction and loss of blood cells.
• Morphologic: This approach concerns anemia in group by measuring the size of red blood cells. The morphologic approach of anemic cells is so rapid and it is available at very low cost similar to its starting point

Sign & Symptom of Anemia:

Anemia is induced in most of the individuals and is undetermined. The symptoms and sign of anemia may be correlated with anemia itself or with cause of anemia. People may face the following signs & symptoms

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• General malaise
• Poor concentration
• Shortness of breath

Questions:

• What is anemia?
• Classify anemia.
• What are signs and symptoms of anemia?