A number of processes can result in anemia. Identifying the cause of an anemia can help decide the most appropriate management strategy.
Mechanisms that can result in anemia:
(1) decreased production (aplasia, hypoplasia, dysplasia, displacement of precursors, ineffective erythropoiesis)
(2) increased blood loss (bleeding)
(3) decreased lifespan and/or increased destruction (intravascular or extravascular hemolysis)
(4) sequestration (hypersplenism, giant vascular malformation)
Conditions such as cirrhosis may cause anemia by multiple mechanisms (mixed).
Mechanism Contributing to the Anemia
Intervention
decreased RBC production
treat the cause(s) of impaired red blood cell production
bleeding
control sites of bleeding
increased destruction or shortened lifespan
treat the causes(s) of the hemolysis
sequestration
attempt mobilization; possible resection of sequestering site if severe
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Specialty: Hematology Oncology, Clinical Laboratory
