Hypochromic anemia

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Hypochromic anemia (pronounced: hi-po-kro-mik uh-nee-mee-uh) is a generic term for any type of anemia in which the red blood cells (RBCs) are paler than normal.

Etymology

The term "Hypochromic anemia" is derived from the Greek words "hypo" meaning "under", "chroma" meaning "color", and "anemia" meaning "lack of blood".

Definition

Hypochromic anemia is a condition characterized by red blood cells that are less red because they have less hemoglobin than normal. Hemoglobin is the substance in the red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. In hypochromic anemia, the red blood cells are also usually smaller than normal.

Causes

The most common cause of hypochromic anemia is iron deficiency anemia, which can result from a diet low in iron, poor absorption of iron by the body, or loss of blood. Other causes can include chronic diseases, certain genetic disorders, and some medications.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hypochromic anemia can include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin. The severity of the symptoms depends on the severity of the anemia.

Diagnosis

Hypochromic anemia is usually diagnosed through a complete blood count (CBC) test, which measures the amount of hemoglobin in the blood and the percentage of the blood that is made up of red blood cells. Other tests may be used to determine the cause of the anemia.

Treatment

Treatment for hypochromic anemia usually involves treating the underlying cause of the anemia. For example, if the anemia is caused by a lack of iron in the diet, the treatment may involve eating more iron-rich foods or taking iron supplements.

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