Anemia: Clinical Approach

Abstract

Anemia is a commonly encountered problem in clinical medicine. Broadly categorized, the causes of anemia relate to acute loss, inadequate production, or destruction of red blood cells. Thoughtful review of the complete blood count (CBC) and reticulocyte count combined with examination of the peripheral blood smear leads to the creation of an appropriate differential diagnosis. The mean corpuscular volume, red cell distribution width, and reticulocyte count provide particularly useful information when considered together and sometimes point toward the specific cause of anemia present. This knowledge minimizes the amount of additional laboratory investigation required. Accurate and timely diagnosis facilitates appropriate therapeutic intervention.