Blood routine indicators for thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia
Feb 28, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Heyang
Introduction
Blood test indicators for thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia generally include red blood cell count, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH). In daily life, it is important to maintain a balanced diet and consume more protein-rich foods such as fish, shrimp, eggs, and dairy products, which can effectively help prevent and treat anemia.
Complete blood count (CBC) indicators for thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia generally include red blood cell count, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH).
Thalassemia, also known as Mediterranean anemia, is a type of microcytic hypochromic anemia, as is iron deficiency anemia. In complete blood counts, both conditions are characterized by reduced levels of red blood cell count, hemoglobin, MCV, MCH, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), all falling below the normal reference ranges.
Iron deficiency anemia is a form of anemia caused by depletion of iron stores required for red blood cell production. The condition arises due to insufficient iron in the body and mainly presents with symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, dry mouth, and loss of appetite. After diagnosis of anemia, patients should undergo medical evaluation of MCV values, which normally range between 80–100 fL. A value below 80 fL indicates microcytic anemia.
If thalassemia is suspected, hemoglobin electrophoresis should be performed to detect any abnormal hemoglobin variants. The presence of abnormalities may indicate thalassemia, necessitating genetic testing for thalassemia to confirm whether it is α-thalassemia or β-thalassemia.
In daily life, maintaining a balanced diet is important. Consuming protein-rich foods such as fish, shellfish, eggs, and dairy products can effectively help prevent and manage anemia.
