Anaemia: A disease or symptom

Neth J Med. 2020 Apr;78(3):104-110.

Abstract

Anaemia is a common diagnosis for clinicians. This mini-review summarises criteria for diagnosing the cause of anaemia. Within the microcytic anaemias, iron-deficient anaemia is most common. In addition, we would like to raise awareness of thalassaemia as a differential diagnosis. A normocytic anaemia, such as anaemia of chronic disease, is a diagnosis of exclusion. A macrocytic anaemia scheme is provided and differentiates based on reticulocyte count. We aim to provide the readers a clear overview of anaemia and when to refer to haematologists.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anemia / diagnosis*
  • Anemia / etiology
  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Hemoglobins / analysis
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pregnancy
  • Reference Values
  • Symptom Assessment / methods*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Hemoglobins