Definition:
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein inside red blood cells. It gives red blood cells their red color. People with anemia do not have enough hemoglobin. See also:
Alternative Names:
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
The cause depends on the type of anemia. Possible causes include: Certain medications Diseases such as cancer or rheumatoid arthritis Genes -- some forms of anemia can be inherited Kidney failure Blood loss (for example, from heavy menstrual periods) Poor diet Pregnancy Problems with bone marrow (where blood cells are made) Problems with the immune system that cause the destruction of blood cells Surgery to the stomach or intestines that reduces the absorption of iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid
References:
Antony AC. Megaloblastic anemias. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 170. Zuckerman KS. Approach to the anemias. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 162.
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