MICROCYTIC ANEMIA Meaning and
Definition
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Microcytic anemia is a medical condition characterized by a decrease in red blood cell size and hemoglobin concentration, leading to a reduced amount of oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood. In this condition, the average size of the red blood cells (also known as erythrocytes) is smaller compared to normal.
There are several causes of microcytic anemia, including iron deficiency, thalassemia, and certain chronic diseases. Iron deficiency anemia accounts for the majority of microcytic anemia cases, where the body lacks sufficient iron to produce hemoglobin, a protein responsible for carrying oxygen to body tissues. Thalassemia, on the other hand, is an inherited blood disorder that affects the production of globin chains, which are a major component of hemoglobin.
Symptoms of microcytic anemia may include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin. Laboratory tests, including a complete blood count and a peripheral blood smear, are used to diagnose the condition. The tests reveal reduced red blood cell size and hemoglobin levels, low mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and a high red blood cell distribution width (RDW).
Treatment for microcytic anemia depends on the underlying cause. It often involves addressing the specific deficiencies, such as iron supplements for iron deficiency anemia or blood transfusions in severe cases. In some cases, the primary cause may require additional interventions or specialized treatments. Regular monitoring and follow-up blood tests are essential to evaluate the response to treatment and determine the effectiveness of management strategies.
Common Misspellings for MICROCYTIC ANEMIA
- nicrocytic anemia
- kicrocytic anemia
- jicrocytic anemia
- mucrocytic anemia
- mjcrocytic anemia
- mkcrocytic anemia
- mocrocytic anemia
- m9crocytic anemia
- m8crocytic anemia
- mixrocytic anemia
- mivrocytic anemia
- mifrocytic anemia
- midrocytic anemia
- miceocytic anemia
- micdocytic anemia
- micfocytic anemia
- mictocytic anemia
- mic5ocytic anemia
- mic4ocytic anemia
Etymology of MICROCYTIC ANEMIA
The word "microcytic" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "mikros" meaning small, and "kytos" meaning cell. Therefore, "microcytic" can be translated as "small cells".
The term "anemia" is from the Greek word "anaimia", which is composed of "an-" meaning without, and "haima" meaning blood. Hence, "anemia" translates to "without blood" or "lack of blood".
Therefore, when combined, "microcytic anemia" refers to a condition characterized by small red blood cells and a decrease in the overall number of red blood cells in the body.
Similar spelling words for MICROCYTIC ANEMIA
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