Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH): An acquired blood disease where the immune system attacks red cells due to a mutation in the X chromosome.
Red Blood Cells
Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (warm AIHA)
Warm AIHA: Immune system attacks red blood cells, causing anemia. Symptoms include fatigue, pallor, and jaundice. Treatment targets immune suppression.
Cold Agglutinin Disease
Cold Agglutinin Disease (CAD) is a rare autoimmune anemia. Cold-reactive antibodies destroy red blood cells, causing fatigue, cold sensitivity, and anemia.
Wilson’s Disease
Wilson’s disease: A rare genetic disorder causing toxic copper buildup in the liver and brain. Early diagnosis and lifelong treatment are crucial.
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS)
Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS): A rare but serious condition causing red blood cell damage, low platelets, and kidney failure. Early diagnosis is key.
Evans Syndrome
Evans syndrome: Rare autoimmune disorder causing low red blood cells & platelets (AIHA & ITP). Can lead to fatigue, bruising, and bleeding.
Folate Deficiency
Folate deficiency, a lack of vitamin B9, can lead to fatigue, weakness, and even birth defects.
Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anemia, an autoimmune condition, disrupts vitamin B12 absorption. This leads to fatigue, nerve problems, and a special type of anemia. Early diagnosis and B12 replacement therapy are key for good health.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
Vitamin B12 keeps the red cells & nerves healthy, but deficiency can lead to fatigue, numbness, and weakness. Early diagnosis is key to prevent complications.
Systemic Approach to Anemia
Systematic anemia diagnosis starts with a detailed history, exam & blood tests. Iron studies, B12/folate levels & other tests pinpoint the cause (iron deficiency, vitamin deficiency, etc.) leading to targeted treatment & improved outcomes.
Hereditary Hemochromatosis
Hereditary hemochromatosis, an inherited disorder, disrupts iron absorption leading to excessive iron buildup in organs like the liver, heart, and pancreas. Early diagnosis through blood tests is crucial to prevent potential complications like cirrhosis, heart failure, and diabetes. Treatment focuses on iron reduction through phlebotomy and may prevent severe health consequences.
Sideroblastic Anemia
Sideroblastic anemia disrupts iron use in red blood cells. Caused by genetic mutations or factors like alcohol abuse, it’s diagnosed by analyzing bone marrow for ring sideroblasts, iron-laden structures.