Anaemia

Anaemia: Morphology and Etiology

Anaemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency in the number or quality of red blood cells, which can lead to inadequate oxygen delivery to body tissues. It can be classified into several types based on morphology and etiology.

Morphological Classification

1. Normocytic Anaemia: Normal red blood cell size, but reduced numbers.
2. Microcytic Anaemia: Small red blood cells, often seen in iron deficiency anemia.
3. Macrocytic Anaemia: Large red blood cells, often seen in vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.

Etiological Classification

1. Nutritional Anaemia: Due to iron, vitamin B12, or folate deficiency.
2. Hemolytic Anaemia: Due to increased red blood cell destruction.
3. Applastic Anaemia: Due to bone marrow failure.
4. Chronic Disease Anaemia: Due to chronic inflammation or infection.

Different Types of Anaemia

1. Iron Deficiency Anaemia: Most common type, caused by iron deficiency.
2. Sickle Cell Anaemia: Genetic disorder causing abnormal hemoglobin.
3. Thalassemia: Genetic disorder affecting hemoglobin production.
4. Pernicious Anaemia: Autoimmune disorder causing vitamin B12 deficiency.
5. Megaloblastic Anaemia: Due to folate or vitamin B12 deficiency.

Abnormal Functions in Anaemia

1. Reduced Oxygen Delivery: Inadequate oxygen delivery to body tissues.
2. Increased Heart Rate: Body tries to compensate for reduced oxygen delivery.
3. Increased Red Blood Cell Count: Body tries to compensate for reduced oxygen delivery.
4. Anemia-related Complications: Increased risk of infections, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

Fate of Bilirubin

Bilirubin is a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown. It is processed in the liver and excreted in bile. If bilirubin levels are elevated, it can cause jaundice.

Physiological Jaundice

Physiological jaundice is a common condition in newborns, caused by the breakdown of red blood cells during the first few days of life. It is characterized by yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes.

Jaundice in Newborn

Jaundice in newborns can be caused by:

1. Physiological Jaundice: Common condition in newborns.
2. Hemolytic Jaundice: Due to increased red blood cell destruction.
3. Breast Milk Jaundice: Caused by substances in breast milk.
4. Infectious Jaundice: Caused by infections such as hepatitis.