11 Haematological Changes

Question 1

Explain how chronic inflammation can cause anaemia.

Answer 1

Question 2

Explain how chronic renal failure can cause anaemia.

Answer 2

Question 3

What would the results be for investigations for suspected anaemia of chronic disease? (4)

Answer 3

1. Normocytic, normochromic or microcytic anaemia
2. Normal/high ferritin
3. Normal/high reticulocyte haemoglobin content
4. CRP often elevated

Question 4

How is anaemia of chronic disease treated?

Answer 4

1. Treat underlying condition
2. If associated renal failure- use recombinant human erythropoietin
3. Ensure Vit B12 folate and iron stores are adequate (otherwise no point giving EPO)
4. Transfuse ONLY IF ALL ELSE FAILS

Question 5

How should anaemia of chronic renal failure be managed?

Answer 5

Question 6

What is Felty’s syndrome?

Answer 6

Triad:

1. Rheumatoid arthritis
2. Splenomegaly
3. Neutropenia (secondary to splenomegaly, peripheral destructuon of neutrophils, failure of bone marrow to produce neutrophils)