What is the medical term for chronically low red blood cells?

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Medical Term for Chronically Low Red Blood Cells

The medical term for chronically low red blood cells is "anemia" or "anaemia." 1

Definition and Diagnostic Criteria

  • Anemia is defined as a reduction in hemoglobin concentration, red blood cell count, or packed cell volume below normal levels 1

  • The World Health Organization defines anemia using hemoglobin thresholds that vary by age and sex 1:

    • Non-pregnant women: Hemoglobin <12.0 g/dL 1
    • Men: Hemoglobin <13.0 g/dL 1
    • Pregnant women: Hemoglobin <11.0 g/dL 1
    • Children (varies by age): Hemoglobin <11.0-12.0 g/dL depending on age group 1

Context: Chronic vs. Acute Anemia

When anemia persists over time in the setting of chronic conditions, it may be specifically termed:

  • "Anemia of chronic disease" (ACD) - the most common form of anemia in hospitalized patients and the second most prevalent anemia worldwide after iron deficiency 2, 3, 4

  • "Anemia of chronic kidney disease" (CKD) - when associated with reduced kidney function, characterized as normocytic, normochromic anemia 1

  • "Anemia of chronic inflammation" - when associated with inflammatory conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune disorders, or chronic infections 1, 2

Clinical Significance

  • Chronic anemia is associated with decreased tissue oxygen delivery, cardiac complications including left ventricular hypertrophy and heart failure, decreased cognition, impaired immune function, and reduced quality of life 1

  • The underlying pathophysiology typically involves insufficient erythropoietin production, iron dysregulation (particularly through hepcidin), suppression of erythropoiesis by inflammatory cytokines, and shortened red blood cell survival 1, 2, 3

References

1
Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

3
Research

Anaemia of Chronic Disease: An In-Depth Review.

Medical principles and practice : international journal of the Kuwait University, Health Science Centre, 2017

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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