Anaemia is a condition due to excessive destruction of red blood cells in the body. It can also arise due to reduction in RBC and haemoglobin production. Anaemia is usually diagnosed by checking clinical history, diet and blood tests. As there are different types of anaemia based on the causes, a detailed analysis is necessary before the onset of treatment.
Clinical Tests and Procedures
The major clinical test for diagnosing the disease is taking a complete blood count (CBC). Detailed blood test shows the level of haemoglobin in blood. The normal count will be between 11-15g/dL. The haematocrit level analysis will give an idea of the percentage of RBC in blood. The normal range is between 32-43 percent. Reduction in values of haemoglobin and haematocrit is an indication of anaemia. CBC will also give the count of RBC, white blood cells (WBC) and platelets. The size of RBC will be below average in anaemic patients due to lack of iron. It can also be tested taking microcytosis.
Results of CBC will tell whether the patient is anaemic or not. If anaemic, further tests will be done to analyse the severity of condition. They are:
Reticulocyte count:
This measures the young RBC count. This value gives an idea of the rate of RBC production.
Haemoglobin Electrophoresis
This method is to check the presence of abnormal haemoglobin in blood.
Blood test will also give an idea of iron and vitamin content in blood. Lack of vitamin B12 can cause anaemia by hindering the production of haemoglobin. Testing the presence of blood in stools of patient shows the chance of internal bleeding.
Another test is taking biopsy from bone marrow. Bone marrow is removed surgically or aspirated to get some cells for clinical examination. The result indicates any abnormalities in bone marrow cells and any factors inhibiting RBC production.
Clinical and family history of patient
The doctor, on consultation, will ask about the family history of patient and about the symptoms like tiredness and weakness. As the symptoms resemble many other common diseases, a final diagnosis will be made only after detailed clinical report. The family history details will give an idea of any genetic risk factors associated with the case.
Physical examination
This includes a detailed examination of heart and liver function. The rate of heartbeat and irregularities in functioning will be checked along with any whistling sound during breathing from lungs. Physical examination of abdomen will give an idea of shape of liver and spleen. Severity of pain, if present in abdominal and pelvic region points out the common source of blood loss. |
