Acute Anemia

Anemia is characterized by a deficiency in the number of circulating red blood cells (RBCs), the amount of hemoglobin, or the volume of packed RBCs, known as hematocrit. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines anemia as a hemoglobin level below 13 g/dL in men and below 12 g/dL in women.

Anemia can be classified into 2 main types:

1. Acute anemia involves a sudden and rapid decrease in RBCs, typically caused by hemolysis or acute hemorrhage.

2. Chronic anemia is characterized by a gradual decline in RBCs over time. Its causes are varied and may include conditions such as iron or other nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases, drug-induced factors, and other underlying health issues.