Hematology

Question 1

3 causes of microcytic anemia

Answer 1

Microcytic – iron-deficiency, thalassemia, anemia of chronic
disease, sideroblastic (lead toxicity).
* Not enough or deficient in the building blocks

Question 2

3 causes of macrocytic anemia

Answer 2

B12 deficiency, folate deficiency, alcohol use, liver
disease, hypothyroidism, myelodysplastic syndrome.
* Not enough cell division.

Question 3

Indications to transfuse in Hb >70

Answer 3

Symptomatic (e.g. short of breath, weakness, chest pain…)
* Evidence of tissue hypoxia
* Hemodynamically unstable
* Acute, ongoing bleeding
* Limited cardiopulmonary reserve