ACD (anemia of chronic disease) occurs when inflammation disrupts iron use for red blood cells, causing anemia despite iron stores.
Red Blood Cells
Red Blood Cell Inclusion Bodies
Red blood cell inclusions are hidden clues! These structures in RBCs signal underlying issues. Learn how they help diagnose anemia & other blood disorders.
Abnormal Red Blood Cell (RBC) Morphology
Red blood cell (RBC) shapes and sizes offer clues to health! Normal RBCs are round and disc-shaped, but abnormal shapes like sickle or teardrop forms can indicate underlying conditions like anemia. Let’s explore what these variations mean!
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.
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.
Preparation of Peripheral Blood Smears
A drop of blood spread on a slide, reveals morphological abnormalities of the blood cells that can be viewed under the microscope.
CBC with Differential and Other Reference Ranges
Reference ranges like complete blood count (CBC) with differential are important because they provide a baseline for interpreting laboratory test results.
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
G6PD deficiency is a common inherited blood disorder that can cause your red blood cells to break down when exposed to certain foods, drugs, or infections.
Sickle Cell Anemia
Sickle cell anemia is a blood disorder that causes red blood cells to be sickle-shaped and less flexible. This can lead to blockages in blood vessels, pain, and organ damage.
Perls’ Prussian Blue Staining
Perls’ Prussian blue stain helps in identifying presence of iron stores in the bone marrow aspirate smear.
Leishman Stain
Leishman stain is used commonly for the identification of different cells present in the peripheral blood smear. It has acidic and basic properties.
