Iron deficiency anemia:
Chapter: 20a
Iron is utilized in the production of hemoglobin. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia in the world, and is most often due to decreased intake (iron-poor diet), or increased utilization, especially chronic blood loss, intravascular hemolysis, pregnancy and lactation. Peripheral blood smear shows microcytic, hypochromic red cells. Bone marrow shows absent iron stores. Low serum iron and decreased ferritin level are also seen. Clinical symptoms are those of general anemia, however, symptoms may not correlate with severity of anemia. A craving to eat clay (pica) is an unusual, but well-known, symptom.