HYPOCHROMEMIA Meaning and
Definition
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Hypochromemia is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by a decrease in the concentration or presence of hemoglobin (the protein responsible for transporting oxygen) within red blood cells. This condition results in a reduction in the red coloration of blood cells, leading to the appearance of paler or more pale than normal.
Anemia is a common cause of hypochromemia, as it is often linked to an insufficient production of healthy red blood cells or the destruction of existing red blood cells. Certain factors can contribute to the development of hypochromemia, such as deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, or folate, which are essential for the production of red blood cells. Other potential causes include chronic diseases, infections, blood loss, or genetic disorders.
Symptoms of hypochromemia may include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, and pale skin. Diagnostic tests conducted by healthcare professionals include complete blood count (CBC), iron studies, and blood smear examination to detect the reduced or absent coloration of red blood cells.
The treatment of hypochromemia addresses the underlying cause, which may involve the administration of iron supplements, vitamin B12 injections, or medications to increase red blood cell production. In severe cases, blood transfusions may be necessary. It is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the root cause of hypochromemia and ensure appropriate treatment for the condition.
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Anemia with a color index below unity.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYPOCHROMEMIA
- hypochromelia
- hypochromemya
- hypochromemaa
- hypochromemma
- hypochromemha
- hypochromemii
- hypochromemie
- hypochromemic
- h ypochromemia
- hypo chromemia
- hypoc hromemia
- hypoch romemia
- hypochr omemia
- hypochro memia
- hypochrom emia
- hypochrome mia
- hypochromem ia
- hypochromemi a
Etymology of HYPOCHROMEMIA
The word "hypochromemia" is derived from two main components: "hypo-" and "-chromemia".
1. "Hypo-" is a prefix of Greek origin meaning "under" or "below normal". It is commonly used in English to indicate something is deficient or reduced.
2. "-chromemia" is a combining form that comes from the Greek word "chroma", meaning "color". In medical terminology, it refers to the presence or level of color in the blood.
So, when combined, "hypochromemia" literally means "reduced color in the blood". This term is commonly used in medical contexts to describe a condition characterized by a decreased concentration of hemoglobin or red blood cells, resulting in paleness or a lack of color in the blood.
