Health Encyclopedia
Anemia of chronic disease
Definition
Anemia of chronic disease is a blood disorder that results from a medical condition that affects the production and lifespan of red blood cells.
See also: Anemia
Alternative Names
Anemia of inflammationCauses
Anemia is a condition where there is a lower than normal number of red blood cells in the blood. Certain chronic infections and inflammatory diseases can affect red blood cells.
Conditions associated with the anemia of chronic disease include:
- Cancer
- Chronic bacterial endocarditis
- Osteomyelitis
- Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
- Rheumatic fever
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
Chronic renal failure may produce a similar anemia because it causes reduced levels of erythropoietin, the hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow.
Symptoms
Symptoms may go unnoticed when there is another disease present. Possible symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Tiredness
Exams and Tests
The doctor will perform a physical examination. Anemia can be confirmed by a red blood count or hemoglobin level.
Treatment
This type of anemia responds to treatment of the primary disease. It is rarely severe enough to require blood transfusion.
Outlook (Prognosis)
With successful treatment of the primary disease, the anemia will go away.
Possible Complications
Discomfort from symptoms is the primary complication of most cases.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have a chronic disorder and you develop symptoms of anemia.
Reviewed By: William Matsui, MD, Assistant Professor of Oncology, Division of Hematologic Malignancies, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
