Anemia

Anemia (Greek ἀναἷμαia meaning "bloodless") is a disorder in which the ability of blood to transport oxygen to the tissues is reduced either by reducing erythrocytes (RBCs) are the reduction of hemoglobin. This lack of oxygen in the organs is known as hypoxia.

Animals with cell volume (PCV or hematocrit) and / or hemoglobin concentration (Hb) and / or concentration of red cells below the limits of refrence for the species, age and weight (hemoglobin 9-10 g / dL in humans) are classified as anemic animals

Diagnosis

The CBC is the main test to be performed when anemia is suspected. In this test it is possible to evaluate the red series, which includes the following parameters:

• total number of erythrocytes

• Hemoglobin

• hematocrit

• mean corpuscular volume (MCV)

• mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH)

• corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC)

• Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW): Index anisocytosis

The normal values ​​vary according to age and sex. In addition to these parameters, the morphological analysis of erythrocytes (peripheral blood smear) is also useful for the etiological diagnosis.

The reticulocyte count is used to evaluate the production of erythrocytes. Expressed as a percentage, the normal value is up to 2%. In absolute ranges between 16,000 and 70,000 reticulocytes / mm ³.

Other tests may be used to assist in diagnosis such as measurement of serum iron and ferritin, hemoglobin electrophoresis test G6PD test daresistência globular osmotic Coombs test, HAM, among others.

Treatment

Treatment should be directed at the underlying cause, ie, the condition that leads to anemic. Supplements can be used iron sulfate, iron fumarate or ferrous gluconate tablet in serum or blood transfusion depending on the severity and urgency of the matter. It is important to investigate the causes as ulcers and cancers of the stomach or intestines can cause blood loss and lead to anemia. Lack of other vitamins and minerals can also result in a lack of iron in the blood.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be required if blood transfusion can not be made, either for medical reasons or religious (as in the case of Jehovah's Witnesses)