Last Updated on February 28, 2024 by Partha Protim Choudhury
Dimorphic anaemia is a medical condition characterized by the presence of two distinct populations of dimorphic red blood cells (RBCs) in the bloodstream. This condition is often indicative of an underlying health issue affecting the production of red blood cells. To understand dimorphic anaemia better, it is crucial to delve into its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.
What causes dimorphic anaemia?
There can be different causes of dimorphic anaemia. Some of them are as follows:
Iron deficiency and chronic inflammation: Dimorphic anaemia commonly arises due to simultaneous deficiencies in iron and other essential nutrients necessary for red blood cell production. Iron deficiency disrupts haemoglobin synthesis, causing smaller, pale RBCs (microcytic, hypochromic) to appear in the blood. Chronic inflammation or infections can also contribute by impairing iron absorption, leading to inadequate RBC production.
Vitamin deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins such as B12 and folate play a significant role in the development of dimorphic anaemia. These vitamins are vital for DNA synthesis and proper red blood cell maturation. Their deficiency can lead to the production of larger-than-normal RBCs (macrocytic). Alongside the smaller, paler RBCs, resulting in a dimorphic appearance.
What are the symptoms of dimorphic anaemia?
Read below the symptoms of dimorphic anaemia:
Fatigue and weakness: Dimorphic anaemia often manifests as fatigue and weakness due to insufficient oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood, resulting from abnormal RBC populations. Patients may experience a lack of energy and stamina for everyday activities.
Shortness of breath: Inadequate oxygenation due to a lower number of functional red blood cells can lead to shortness of breath, particularly during physical exertion or even at rest in severe cases. This symptom arises from the body’s struggle to meet its oxygen demands.
Pale skin and nail beds: The diminished number of healthy RBCs can result in the paleness of the skin and nail beds due to decreased blood flow and oxygenation, which is a visible sign of the condition.
What is the treatment of dimorphic anaemia?
Dimorphic anaemia often signals underlying deficiencies or health issues. Proper diagnosis and treatment involve identifying and addressing the root causes. Along with appropriate supplementation or medical interventions to restore normal red blood cell levels and alleviate associated symptoms.
Addressing underlying causes: Treatment of dimorphic anaemia primarily revolves around identifying and addressing the underlying causes. This often involves dietary changes or supplementation to correct deficiencies in iron, vitamins (B12, folate), or other essential nutrients.
Iron and vitamin supplementation: Supplemental intake of iron, B12, or folate might be necessary to restore normal red blood cell production. This can be in the form of oral supplements or injections, depending on the severity of the deficiency.
Medications and therapies: In cases where chronic inflammation or underlying health conditions contribute to dimorphic anaemia, specific medications or therapies targeting those conditions may be prescribed to reduce the impact on red blood cell production.
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