The presence of certain chronic medical conditions, such as cancer, and infectious and inflammatory diseases, can lead to the development of anemia.
Anemia
is a blood disorder occurring when abnormally low levels of red blood cells are found in the blood.
With anemia of chronic disease (ACD), the body cannot effectively use iron to make new red blood cells even though levels of stored iron in the body’s tissue are normal or high. As a result, the number of healthy new red blood cells gradually falls. Similarly, levels of hemoglobin, the component of red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues and muscles, also drop. Although ACD is the second most common form of anemia. It is rarely severe.
Other illnesses contribute to the development of ACD including:
-
Chronic infections such as
tuberculosis, lung abscess, and subacute
endocarditis
-
Noninfectious inflammatory diseases such as
rheumatoid arthritis
,
osteomyelitis
,
systemic lupus erythematosus
, and inflammatory bowel disease
-
Common childhood infections, including
ear infections
and
urinary tract infections
- Congestive heart failure
, thyroid disease, and
kidney failure
-
Cancer, particularly
Hodgkin’s disease
,
lung cancer
, and
breast cancer
Anyone of any age with a chronic inflammatory or infectious disease may be at risk for ACD, but the elderly are among those at highest risk.
ACD usually develops slowly producing few or no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they are usually mild. Symptoms include:
- Pale complexion, dizziness, fatigue, and rapid heartbeat
- Infection, fever (even mild)
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, particularly any history of chronic inflammatory or infectious disease or cancer, and perform a physical exam. Blood tests may include:
- Red blood cell count
- Hemoglobin level
- Serum iron level
- Serum ferritin level
- Serum transferrin receptor level
- Transferrin iron binding capacity
- Total iron binding capacity (TIBC)
Because iron stores will be elevated in the bone marrow, a bone marrow biopsy may also be performed.
With ACD, if the underlying disease causing it is found and treated, the anemia may improve or clear on its own. Iron supplements and vitamins are generally not effective. For the unusual severe case of ACD, blood transfusions may be helpful. Additionally, drugs that help stimulate growth of new red blood cells, like erythropoietin, may be given temporarily.
If you have a chronic medical condition, continue prescribed treatment and maintain regular visits with your doctor.
Last reviewed January 2008 by Igor Puzanov, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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