Anemia and Hematologic Disorders Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards defining key terms, manifestations, and classifications related to anemia and hematologic conditions from the lecture notes.

Anemia

A deficiency in the number of erythrocytes (RBCs), quantity of hemoglobin, or volume of packed RBCs (hematocrit).

Morphologic Classification

Classification of anemia based on cellular characteristics using descriptive, objective laboratory information.

Etiologic Classification

Classification of anemia based on its underlying cause.

Pallor

The most common integumentary manifestation of anemia, caused by decreased hemoglobin and decreased blood flow to the skin.

Jaundice

An integumentary manifestation caused by an increased concentration of serum bilirubin.

Pruritus

An integumentary manifestation caused by increased serum and skin bile salt concentrations.

Erythrocyte Lifespan

The total lifespan of a normal red blood cell, which is 120 days.

Iron-Deficiency Anemia

One of the most common chronic hematologic disorders, occurring when iron supply is insufficient for hemoglobin synthesis.

Glossitis

Inflammation of the tongue, which is the second most common clinical manifestation in iron-deficiency anemia.

Cheilitis

Inflammation of the lips, observed as a clinical manifestation in iron-deficiency anemia.

Ferrous Sulfate

The preferred oral iron preparation that is best absorbed in an acidic environment at a daily dose of 150 to 200 mg.

Megaloblastic Anemias

A group of disorders caused by impaired DNA synthesis and characterized by the presence of large red blood cells called megaloblasts.

Intrinsic Factor (IF)

A protein secreted by parietal cells of the gastric mucosa that is required for cobalamin (vitamin B12) absorption in the distal ileum.

Pernicious Anemia

The most common cause of cobalamin deficiency, characterized by an insidious onset due to the absence of intrinsic factor.

Folic Acid Deficiency

A megaloblastic anemia caused by lack of folic acid, which is required for DNA synthesis leading to RBC production.

Anemia of Chronic Disease

An underproduction anemia driven by chronic inflammation, characterized by normocytic, normochromic RBCs, increased serum ferritin, and increased iron stores.

Pancytopenia

A condition characterized by a decrease in all blood cell types: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Aplastic Anemia

A disease characterized by pancytopenia and hypocellular bone marrow with increased fat content (yellow marrow).

Hemolytic Anemia

Anemia resulting from the destruction or hemolysis of red blood cells at a rate that exceeds production.