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Describe the acute blood loss anemia.
acute anemia due to blood loss
This term is somewhat difficult to define, and there are no specific cutoffs. The need for a transfusion and/or a Hb drop of 1.0 g/dL may support the diagnosis.
What is the etiology?
any cause of bleeding can cause acute blood loss anemia
What are the clinical features?
May be asymptomatic or have symptoms of anemia
List diagnostic tests and their possible results.
Laboratory studies
CBC: ↓ or normal Hb
Usually normocytic anemia
Compare to prior studies, if available.
Check platelets for thrombocytopenia.
Type and screen with crossmatching
Coagulation panel
Blood for potential further studies based on CBC should be drawn before blood transfusion (draw and hold).
Imaging: Modality depends on the pretest probability of the suspected site of bleeding.
CT soft tissue if there is concern for intramuscular bleeding
CT abdomen and pelvis if there is concern for intraabdominal bleeding
CXR and/or CT chest if there is concern for a pulmonary source (see “Diagnostics” in pleural effusion and in hemothorax)
Endoscopy and/or colonoscopy if there is concern for a GI bleed
What is the treatment?
Identify and treat the underlying cause.
Emergency blood transfusion
What should be remembered concerning Hemoglobin and Hematocrit?
Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels can initially be normal in acute hemorrhage, even if there has already been significant blood loss. They will eventually decrease after plasma volume has been restored either spontaneously or via IV fluid resuscitation.
Last changed2 years ago