Why is my patient anemic?

Locke J Bryan; Neil A Zakai

doi:10.1016/j.hoc.2012.02.008

Why is my patient anemic?

Hematol Oncol Clin North Am. 2012 Apr;26(2):205-30, vii. doi: 10.1016/j.hoc.2012.02.008.

Authors

Locke J Bryan¹, Neil A Zakai

Affiliation

¹ University of Vermont College of Medicine, 111 Colchester Avenue, Smith Room 244, Burlington, VT 05401, USA.

PMID: 22463824
DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2012.02.008

Abstract

Anemia is a decreased number of circulating red blood cells and is a common medical condition faced in clinical practice. Anemia is caused by loss of red blood cells, destruction of red blood cells, decreased production of red blood cells, or a combination of these processes. Through a clinical history, physical examination, and laboratory evaluation the provider must identify the process by which the patient is anemic. Often the cause of anemia is straightforward; however, the cause can be challenging, requiring a thorough knowledge of both hematology and general medicine.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Anemia / diagnosis
Anemia / etiology*
Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
Erythrocyte Indices
Erythropoiesis
Humans
Infections / complications
Inflammation / complications