Anemia is a common clinical problem in medicine. A physiologic approach (outlined in Chap. 45. Anemia and Polycythemia) provides the most efficient path to diagnosis and management. Anemias arise either because red blood cell (RBC) production is inadequate or because RBC lifespan (normally 120 days) is shortened through loss from the circulation or destruction.
Section 6. Hematology and Oncology