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Hypochromia

 

Hypochromia means that the red blood cells have less color than normal when examined under a microscope. This usually occurs when there is not enough of the pigment that carries oxygen ( hemoglobin ) in the red blood cells.

The most common cause of hypochromia in the United States is not enough iron in the body (iron deficiency). If it is not treated, this can lead to a disorder called iron deficiency anemia .

The cause of hypochromia should be evaluated by your health care provider.

 

References

Brittenham GM. Disorders of iron homeostasis: iron deficiency and overload. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ Jr, Silberstein LE, et al, eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice . 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2013:chap 34.

Ginder GD. Microcytic and hypochromic anemias. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman's Cecil Medicine . 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2015:chap 159.

 
  • Hypochromia - illustration

    A decrease in the amount of hemoglobin found in red blood cells is called hypochromia.

    Hypochromia

    illustration

    • Hypochromia - illustration

      A decrease in the amount of hemoglobin found in red blood cells is called hypochromia.

      Hypochromia

      illustration

    Tests for Hypochromia

     

     

    Review Date: 2/11/2016

    Reviewed By: Todd Gersten, MD, Hematology/Oncology, Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, Wellington, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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