Etymed
microcytic anemia
Definition
A type of anemia characterized by the presence of small red blood cells (microcytes) due to insufficient hemoglobin production
Clinical context
A 28-year-old woman presents with fatigue and pale skin. Her complete blood count shows small red blood cells with low hemoglobin content. She reports heavy menstrual periods and poor dietary intake. Physical examination reveals brittle nails and oral cavity lesions.
Mnemonic
MINC - Microcytes, Iron deficiency, Nutritional causes, Chronic disease