Deficiency Anemias

Deficiency anemias are among the most common forms of anemia and often develop due to a lack of essential nutrients required for hematopoiesis. There are three main types: iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, and folic acid deficiency anemia.

These anemias are characterized by a reduced number or functional insufficiency of erythrocytes (red blood cells), caused by a deficiency of the corresponding nutrient. As a result, hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen transport to tissues are impaired, leading to symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, and pallor of the skin.

The causes of deficiency anemias may vary and include:

insufficient dietary intake (e.g., strict diets, unbalanced nutrition),

impaired absorption (e.g., celiac disease, gastritis, small intestinal disorders),

increased demand (e.g., pregnancy, periods of growth),

chronic or acute blood loss (e.g., menorrhagia, gastrointestinal ulcers),

effects of certain medications.

Common symptoms of anemia include general weakness, easy fatigability, dizziness, palpitations, shortness of breath, pallor of the skin and mucous membranes, brittle nails, hair loss, swelling, and pain of the tongue. In cases of vitamin B12 deficiency, neurological manifestations may also develop, such as tingling, numbness, balance disturbances, and memory impairment.

Diagnosis of deficiency anemias is based on general and specialized laboratory tests, including complete blood count, assessment of iron stores, and determination of vitamin levels.