Disorders of Iron Metabolism and Heme Synthesis

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to disorders of iron metabolism and heme synthesis, including types of anemia and their causes.

Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA)

A condition caused by inadequate iron leading to decreased red blood cells and hemoglobin.

Absolute iron deficiency

A decrease in total body iron due to blood loss, low intake, or high utilization.

Functional iron deficiency

Inadequate utilization of iron stores, often due to iron sequestration syndromes.

Iron overload

An excess of iron in the body, which may result from inherited conditions or chronic disorders.

Ferritin

A protein that stores iron in the body, its level indicates the amount of stored iron.

Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC)

A blood test that measures the blood's capacity to bind iron with transferrin.

Microcytic anemia

Anemia characterized by smaller than normal red blood cells.

Hypochromic anemia

Anemia where red blood cells have less color than normal due to low hemoglobin.

Reticulocyte count

A test that measures the number of young red blood cells, which can indicate bone marrow activity.

Megaloblastic anemia

A type of anemia characterized by larger than normal red blood cells due to impaired DNA synthesis.

Vitamin B12 deficiency

A deficiency that can lead to megaloblastic anemia, often associated with neurological symptoms.

Folic acid deficiency

A deficiency that can lead to megaloblastic anemia, typically caused by inadequate dietary intake.

Pernicious anemia

A type of B12 deficiency anemia caused by an autoimmune condition that affects absorption.

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia

Anemia caused by the immune system attacking the body's own red blood cells.

Hemoglobinuria

The presence of hemoglobin in urine, indicating hemolysis.

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)

A rare blood disorder characterized by hemolysis due to the absence of protective cell markers.