what is hypochromic microcytic anaemia?


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An individual is said to have hypochromic microcytic anaemia when he or she has a low haemoglobin level with red blood cells that are generally paler and smaller than normal. This can be detected by laboratory machines which can measure or derive the mean red cell volume (MCV) and mean red cell haemoglobin content (MCH) of a blood sample. In patients with hypochromic microcytic anaemia, the MCV and MCH will usually be lower than the normal range for age and sex. In addition to this, hypochromic and microcytic red cells can also be seen on examination of the blood film.

The common causes of hypochromic microcytic anaemia in our population are iron deficiency and thalassaemia. Less frequent causes include anaemia of chronic disease, lead poisoning, sideroblastic, anaemia and aluminium toxicity. Apart from laboratory tests, the history and physical findings of the patient also provide useful information on the cause of the anaemia.
It can be cured with Iron substitution in form of pills.
Hypochromic = blood cells not as red as they should be
Microcytic = small cells
Anemia = not enough blood cells

This is usually caused by not enough iron in your diet.


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