Microcytic

Microcytic Anemias.

Why are the RBC's smaller than normal? Well there is a decrease in the synthesis of hemoglobin and and this shortage acts as a signal to induce more cells division cycles as in mitosis. When a cell goes through mitosis it gets smaller. The more divisions the smaller it gets. So since all microcytic anemias have a decrease in hemoglobin synthesis the RBC's are signaled to divide and they become small, hence the term Microcytic.

There are 4 types of microcytic Anemia:

1.) Iron Deficiency Anemia 

2.) Anemia of Chronic Disease

3.) Thalassemia (Beta & Alpha)

4.) Sideroblastic Anemia (Alcohol, Vit B-6 deficiency, Lead poisoning)