Hamid Noori: Understanding the Cause of Anemia through Etiological Classification
Hamid Noori, Medical Laboratory Technologist at World Health Organization, shared a post on LinkedIn:
”Anemia Classification (Part 2): Etiological Approach – Understanding the Root Cause
After identifying anemia morphologically, the next critical step is to determine why it occurs.
Etiological classification focuses on the underlying cause, which is essential for proper treatment.
1. Blood Loss (Hemorrhagic Anemia):
Acute blood loss
- Trauma, surgery, postpartum hemorrhage
- Initially normocytic, may progress
Chronic blood loss
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Menstrual disorders
- Often leads to iron deficiency anemia
2. Decreased Red Blood Cell Production:
Bone marrow fails to produce enough RBCs
Common causes:
- Iron deficiency
- Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
- Aplastic anemia
- Chronic diseases (e.g., kidney disease ↓ erythropoietin)
Characteristics:
- Low reticulocyte count
- Reduced RBC production
3. Increased Red Blood Cell Destruction (Hemolytic Anemia):
RBCs are destroyed faster than they are produced
Causes include:
- Inherited conditions (e.g., sickle cell disease)
- Enzyme deficiencies (e.g., G6PD deficiency)
- Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
- Infections or drugs
Characteristics:
- High reticulocyte count
- Increased bilirubin
- Possible jaundice
Why does this matter?
Two patients may have the same Hb level-but completely different causes.
Treatment depends on identifying the correct etiology.
Laboratory Role:
- Reticulocyte count
- Peripheral blood smear
- Bilirubin levels
- Bone marrow examination (if needed)
Next: Part 3 – Step-by-Step Laboratory
Diagnosis of Anemia.”
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