A clinico-pathological study of geriatric anemias

Abstract

Introduction: Anemia in the older age (e.g., >60 years) is a major health problem in India and many parts of the world since it signifies an underlying disease and is associated with poor clinical outcome like increased morbidity and affects health-related quality of life. Since symptoms like fatigue or shortness of breath related to anemia could also be attributed to the aging process, anemia is often easily overlooked in the elderly. Aims and objectives: Clinico-hematological patterns and morphological types of anemia in older age (e.g. >60 years) are manifold, hence this study was undertaken to determine them and to know more about associated disorders. Materials and methodology: The present study was conducted on a sample size of 1257 patients who were 60 years and above and clinically diagnosed as anemic. Routine haematological investigations including peripheral blood smear examination and complete hemogram were done. Special investigations like bone-marrow examination and iron studies were done whenever required. Results: Males (aged >60 years) were more affected than females (aged >60 years) and patients in the age group of 60–69 years were affected the most. The most common presenting symptom was generalized weakness. The most common morphological type was normocytic normochromic anemia, and chronic diseases were the commonest etiological factors. Conclusion: In spite of modern diagnostic advances, geriatric anemias still remain under-reported and inadequately investigated, necessitating evaluation of even mild anemias. Prompt diagnosis and definite categorization helps in appropriate management of anemias.