Microcytosis
Microcytosis (pronunciation: /ˌmaɪkrəʊsaɪˈtəʊsɪs/) is a medical condition characterized by the presence of unusually small red blood cells in the bloodstream. The term is derived from the Greek words "micros" meaning small, and "kytos" meaning cell, with "-osis" indicating a condition or process.
Definition
Microcytosis is typically diagnosed when the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of red blood cells is below 80 femtoliters (fL). It is often associated with conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, thalassemia, and other forms of anemia.
Symptoms
Symptoms of microcytosis can vary depending on the underlying cause, but may include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin. In some cases, microcytosis may be discovered during a routine blood test and the individual may not experience any noticeable symptoms.
Causes
The most common cause of microcytosis is iron deficiency anemia, which can result from inadequate dietary intake of iron, poor absorption of iron by the body, or loss of blood. Other causes can include thalassemia, a genetic disorder that affects the body's production of hemoglobin, and chronic disease anemia.
Diagnosis
Microcytosis is typically diagnosed through a complete blood count (CBC) test, which measures the size and number of red blood cells in a sample of blood. If microcytosis is detected, further tests may be conducted to determine the underlying cause.
Treatment
Treatment for microcytosis typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may involve dietary changes or supplements to increase iron levels, medication to manage symptoms of thalassemia, or other treatments as appropriate.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Microcytosis
- Wikipedia's article - Microcytosis
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