Interpretation Of Lab Results

              Anemia - iron deficiency Reticulocytes  In the presence of some anemias, the body increases production of red blood cells (RBCs), and sends these cells into the bloodstream before they are mature. These slightly immature cells are called reticulocytes, and are characterized by a network of filaments and granules. Reticulocytes normally make up 1% of the total RBC count, but may exceed levels of 4% when compensating for anemia  

Folate-deficiency anemia    is a decrease in red blood cells (anemia) caused by folate deficiency. Causes, incidence, and risk factors      Folate, also called folic acid, is necessary for red blood cell formation and growth. Folate can be obtained from green leafy vegetables and liver. Some medications, such as Dilantin (phenytoin), interfere with the absorption of this vitamin. Because folate is not stored in the body in large amounts, a continual dietary supply of this vitamin is needed.

 Definitions & types of anemia and its treatments Definition     Return to  Anemia is a lower than normal number of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the blood, usually measured by a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the red pigment in red blood cells that transports oxygen.

Diagnosing Anemia In many cases, doctors don't discover anemia until they run blood tests as part of a routine physical examination.  A complete blood count (CBC) may indicate that there are fewer red blood cells than normal.  Other diagnostic tests may include: 

Signs and Symptoms of Anemia The most common sign of iron deficiency and other types of nutritional anemia is mild paleness of the skin, along with decreased pinkness of the lips, the lining of the eyelids, and the nail beds.