The hypochromic anemias.
Hypochromic anemia is the commonest type of anemia encountered in family practice. Although iron deficiency is by far the most common cause, it cannot be readily distinguished from hypochromic anemia due to other causes (thalassemia, secondary anemia and sideroblastic anemia) without knowing the state of the tissue iron stores. Treatment with iron should not be commenced until this is known. To establish the reason for the hypochromic state, the following tests are suggested: serum ferritin, bone marrow assessment of iron stores, plus serum iron and iron binding capacity.
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Am J Clin Pathol. 1975 Apr;63(4):549-53
1119445
Can Med Assoc J. 1975 Mar 22;112(6):701-2
1122440
Semin Hematol. 1970 Jan;7(1):86-106
4905915
Can Med Assoc J. 1975 Mar 22;112(6):698-700
804345