Normocytic Normochromic Anemia, What It Is, Causes & Symptoms
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Nivedita Dar19 Nov, 2024
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Normocytic Normochromic Anemia: a disorder of blood. Anemia is a condition in which the blood has a lower than normal number of red blood cells (RBCs) or less hemoglobin, the protein in RBCs that carries oxygen throughout the body. Among the many types of anemia, one particular form is normocytic normochromic anemia. This condition can be tricky to understand because, unlike other types of anemia, it’s not caused by unusually small or large RBCs or by cells that are poorly colored. Instead, the red blood cells appear normal in size (normocytic) and color (normochromic), but there simply aren’t enough of them.
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What Is Normocytic Normochromic Anemia?
The term normocytic refers to RBCs that are normal in size, and normochromic means the cells have a normal color, which indicates that they have the right amount of hemoglobin. However, in this type of anemia, there’s still a problem: even though the red blood cells look normal, the body doesn’t have enough of them. This results in a reduced ability to carry oxygen to tissues and organs, leading to common symptoms of anemia like fatigue and weakness. Normocytic normochromic anemia is often more challenging to detect compared to other forms of anemia, where red blood cells might be visibly smaller or paler.Causes of Normocytic Normochromic Anemia
There are various causes of normocytic normochromic anemia, and it’s often a result of other underlying health conditions. Some common causes include:Chronic Diseases
One of the most common causes is anemia of chronic disease (ACD). Long-standing illnesses like kidney disease, diabetes, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and heart disease can affect the body’s ability to produce healthy red blood cells, leading to normocytic normochromic anemia. In these cases, inflammation from the chronic illness disrupts the production of RBCs.Acute Blood Loss
A sudden loss of a significant amount of blood due to trauma, surgery, or internal bleeding can result in this type of anemia. In the early stages of blood loss, the red blood cells that remain are still normal in size and color.Bone Marrow Disorders
Diseases that affect the bone marrow, such as aplastic anemia, leukemia, or myelofibrosis, can also lead to normocytic normochromic anemia. In these conditions, the bone marrow is unable to produce enough red blood cells despite them being normal in appearance.Kidney Disease
The kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which signals the bone marrow to make more red blood cells. In chronic kidney disease, the production of erythropoietin may be reduced, leading to fewer RBCs being produced and causing anemia.Hemolysis
This is the premature destruction of red blood cells in the body. Even though the red blood cells are healthy when they are made, they don’t last as long as they should, leading to a lower count.Endocrine Disorders
Conditions like hypothyroidism and adrenal insufficiency can slow down the body’s production of RBCs.Symptoms of Normocytic Normochromic Anemia
The symptoms of normocytic normochromic anemia are similar to those of other forms of anemia. These include: Fatigue : Feeling tired or weak, even after resting. Pale skin: The skin may look lighter than usual due to fewer RBCs circulating. Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity. Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy, particularly when standing up quickly. Chest pain: Some people may experience discomfort in the chest, especially if the heart has to work harder to pump oxygen. Cold hands and feet: Poor circulation due to anemia can lead to feelings of coldness in the extremities.Diagnosing Normocytic Normochromic Anemia
Diagnosing normocytic normochromic anemia involves several tests. A healthcare provider will begin with a complete blood count (CBC), which measures the number, size, and hemoglobin content of red blood cells. In normocytic normochromic anemia, the CBC will show:- Normal-sized red blood cells (normal mean corpuscular volume or MCV)
- Normal hemoglobin levels per red blood cell (normal mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration or MCHC)
- A lower-than-normal total number of red blood cells.
Treatment of Normocytic Normochromic Anemia
Treatment for normocytic normochromic anemia focuses on addressing the underlying cause. Some treatment options include:Managing Chronic Conditions
If anemia is caused by a chronic disease, treating the underlying condition is the first step. For example, controlling inflammation in diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or managing kidney disease can help improve anemia.Erythropoietin Therapy
In cases of anemia caused by kidney disease, doctors may prescribe erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), which encourage the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells.Blood Transfusions
In cases of severe anemia or acute blood loss, blood transfusions may be necessary to quickly increase the number of red blood cells.Iron or Vitamin Supplementation
If a nutritional deficiency is contributing to anemia, supplements like iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid may be prescribed.Medications
For bone marrow disorders or autoimmune conditions, medications to suppress the immune system or stimulate the production of red blood cells may be needed.Normocytic Normochromic Anemia FAQs
What is anemia or chronic disease?
Anemia of chronic disease is a type of anemia that occurs in people with long-standing illnesses, such as infections, cancer, or autoimmune conditions. The body’s response to chronic inflammation interferes with the production of red blood cells.
What is the use of iron profile in anemia?
An iron profile measures various aspects of iron in the blood, such as serum iron, ferritin, and transferrin. It helps determine whether iron deficiency is the cause of anemia and guides treatment decisions.
Which nematode infection can cause anemia?
Hookworm infection, caused by nematodes such as Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus, can cause anemia due to blood loss from the intestines.
Is anemia completely curable?
Anemia can be curable, depending on the cause. Anemia due to iron deficiency or vitamin deficiencies can often be treated and reversed, but anemia caused by chronic diseases may require long-term management.
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