RBC (Red blood cells) and Anemia
What are Red blood cells?
The most prevalent type of blood cell in the human body are red blood cells,
or erythrocytes.
They primarily carry carbon dioxide back to the lungs so that it can be
breathed, as well as oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues and organs.
Red Blood cells are produced in bone marrow and circulate in blood.
Lifespan of RBCs
RBCs are made in the bone marrow and have a 120-day average lifespan.
Due to their small size, flexibility, and biconcave disk-like form, they
may easily fit into constricted blood arteries and effectively transfer
oxygen.
A hormone called erythropoietin, which the kidneys generate in reaction
to low blood oxygen levels, controls the maturation and synthesis of RBCs.
What do RBCs do?
RBCs play vital role in our body and life as a whole
Here is a list of RBC’s functions in our body:
- Oxygen transport
- Carbon dioxide transport
- Acid-base balance maintenance
- Hemoglobin synthesis and function
- Regulation of blood viscosity
- Contribution to blood osmolarity
- Facilitation of nitric oxide transport
- Scavenging of free radicals
- Participation in immune modulation
- Maintenance of redox balance
Video lecture in Anemia in Nepali
conditions, including anemia, sickle cell disease, and polycythemia.
and management of these conditions.
Anemia:
Anemia is a disorder where the body’s ability to carry oxygen is
compromised due to a shortage of red blood cells (RBCs) of a certain type or
quantity. This may result in symptoms like weakness, exhaustion,
breathlessness, and pale skin.
Blood loss, a decline in RBC
production, or an increase in RBC oxidation are a few of the causes of
anemia.
cancer or kidney disease are common causes of anemia.
Severity of anemia classification:
The severity of anemia is classified based on
hemoglobin (Hb) levels as
per the
World Health Organization (WHO)
guidelines. The classification varies slightly between different
populations (e.g., children, pregnant women, adults).
Severity Classification of Anemia (table)
| Severity | Hemoglobin (Hb) Level |
|---|---|
| Mild Anemia |
10 – 11.9 g/dL (Non-pregnant women & Men) 10 – 10.9 g/dL (Pregnant women) 10 – 10.9 g/dL (Children 6 months – 5 years) |
| Moderate Anemia | 7 – 9.9 g/dL (All groups) |
| Severe Anemia | <7 g/dL (All groups) |
Additional Considerations
-
Life-threatening anemia:
Hb < 5 g/dL (requires urgent transfusion and critical care). -
Chronic vs. Acute Anemia:
Acute anemia (e.g., due to sudden blood loss) is more dangerous than
chronic anemia, even at the same Hb level. -
Individual Variability:
The severity of symptoms may depend on factors like age, underlying
conditions, and speed of onset.
Causes of Anemia
of RBC function are frequently used to diagnose anemia.
include dietary adjustments, vitamin or iron supplements, prescription
drugs, or blood transfusions.
Causes of Anemia According to Type
1. Microcytic Anemia
- Iron deficiency
- Thalassemia (Alpha & Beta)
- Anemia of chronic disease (late stage)
- Lead poisoning
- Sideroblastic anemia
2. Macrocytic Anemia
(a) Megaloblastic Anemia:
-
Vitamin B12 deficiency (Pernicious anemia, malabsorption, dietary
deficiency) - Folate deficiency (Malnutrition, alcoholism, pregnancy)
- Drugs (Methotrexate, Hydroxyurea, Phenytoin)
(b) Non-megaloblastic Anemia:
- Liver disease
- Alcoholism
- Hypothyroidism
- Reticulocytosis
3. Normocytic Anemia
(a) Hemolytic Anemia:
-
Intrinsic (Hereditary spherocytosis, G6PD deficiency, Sickle cell
disease, PNH) -
Extrinsic (Autoimmune hemolytic anemia, Microangiopathic hemolytic
anemia, Infections – Malaria, Babesiosis)
(b) Non-hemolytic Anemia:
- Anemia of chronic disease (early stage)
- Chronic kidney disease (Erythropoietin deficiency)
- Aplastic anemia
- Myelophthisic anemia (Bone marrow infiltration)
Treatment of anemia
In addition to controlling any underlying medical disorders that may
raise the risk of anemia, prevention of anemia entails keeping a
nutritious diet that contains supplies of iron, vitamin B12, and other
vital minerals.
replacce the professional advice of your doctor.
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for any damage or adverse effect dont to you or any other person due to
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
-
What is the primary function of red blood cells (RBCs)?
Red blood cells (RBCs) are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues and carrying carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation. They also play a role in maintaining acid-base balance, blood viscosity, and immune modulation. -
What are the common causes of anemia?
Anemia can be caused by blood loss, reduced RBC production, or increased RBC destruction. Common causes include iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, chronic diseases (such as kidney disease or cancer), genetic conditions (such as thalassemia or sickle cell disease), and certain medications. -
How is anemia diagnosed and treated?
Anemia is diagnosed through blood tests that assess RBC count, hemoglobin levels, and other indicators of RBC function. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include dietary changes, vitamin or iron supplements, medications, or blood transfusions. Consulting a doctor is essential for proper diagnosis and management.
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