"Micro"-manage me (Microcytic)
The "I" in the TAILS mnemonic, the most common cause of anemia worldwide.
What is Iron deficiency?
These specific white blood cells "grow extra segments" in B12 deficiency.
This lab value increases because the bone marrow is trying to replace the destroyed red cells.
What is reticulocyte count?
The term for a craving to eat non-food items like ice or dirt.
What is pica?
A genetic defect in globin chain synthesis, looks like a "target" on a slide.
What is Thalassaemia?
A deficiency in B12 and folate causes this type of anaemia.
What are megaloblastic anaemias?
These "fragmented" or "helmet" cells are seen when RBCs are shredded by physical trauma in small vessels.
What are schistocytes?
A physical sign of iron deficiency where nails become spoon-shaped.
What is koilonychia?
In a patient with Iron Deficiency Anemia, this specific lab value ... will be elevated.
What is TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity)?
This drug used to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis and Psoriasis, is a well-known cause of drug-induced folate deficiency.
What is methothrexate?
This broad category of haemolytic anemia is caused by acquired factors, such as immune-mediated causes, microangiopathic causes, or infections.
What is extracorpuscular haemolytic anaemia?
This physical exam finding: a smooth, beefy red tongue, is common in both B12 and folate deficiencies.
What is glossitis?
The name of the medication type used to 'mop up' excess iron from the blood to prevent organ damage.
What are iron chelators?
This common term describes the "pins and needles" sensation in the hands and feet caused by B12 deficiency.
What is Paresthesia?
This autosomal dominant condition is caused by a defect in RBC membrane proteins like Spectrin or Ankyrin, causing cells to lose their biconcave shape.
The classic pentad of clinical features for this disorder are:
Thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia, neurologic abnormalities, renal failure and fever.
What is (microangiopathic) haemolytic anemia?
In Alpha-Thalassemia, the deletion of all four alpha-globin genes leads to this fatal condition in utero.
What is hydrops foetalis?
Unlike Folate deficiency, B12 deficiency causes an elevation in this specific metabolic acid.
What is Methylmalonic Acid (MMA)?
In "Warm" AIHA, the antibodies coating the red cells are typically of this specific immunoglobulin class.
What is IgG?
What form of anaemia is usually asymptomatic?