ANEMIA
Anemia is a common condition, particularly in young women and also in the geriatric population. Anemia is defined as hemoglobin (Hb) < 120g/L in women and Hb < 130 g/L in men. The Hb concentration can be low due to a reduced number of red blood cells (RBC)/ml or a reduced hemoglobin content of the RBC. The causes of anemia can be either the loss or destruction of the RBC or a lower rate in the production of the new RBC. The reason for RBC destruction can be multiple: from inherited Hb diseases like sickle cell or β-thalassemia to infections like malaria.
In the RBC formation, two vitamins are necessary: Vitamin B12 and folate (Vitamin B9). Deficiency on one of these vitamins will lead to long term anemia which is characterized by macrocytosis.
Ferritin is the primary intracellular protein responsible for storing iron and serves as a reliable indicator of total body iron stores. In cases of iron-deficiency anemia, serum ferritin levels are low, reflecting depleted iron stores, while serum iron is decreased, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) is elevated and transferrin saturation is reduced.
Iron deficiency remains the most common cause of microcytotic anemia. Iron deficiency is defined as low iron serum level, elevated transferrin binding capacity and low ferritin. Iron deficiency is frequently found in menstruating woman, patients with chronical blood loss, people who have problem with iron absorption, etc.
The following are key laboratory markers used to evaluate and diagnose anemia:
