Hypochromia
Overview
Hypochromia refers to a reduction in the intensity of red blood cell colour.
Signs of Hypochromia
- An increase in central pallor >⅓ of the cell on blood film
- Reduced red cell haemoglobin (MCH / MCHC)
Causes of Hypochromia
Microcytic
- Iron deficiency anaemia
- Anaemia of chronic disease (infection / inflammation / malignancy)
- Thalassaemia
- Congenital sideroblastic anaemia
- Lead poisoning
- Hyperthyroidism
Macrocytic
- Copper deficiency
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