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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Sudden Decrease In The RBC Level?

I have suddenly become anemic - I m a male, 73, and have never had probs with low red blood cells. In 6 mo time my numbers went from normal RBC to 8.3. I saw a hematologist who is giving me iron infusions, but I wonder why this happened so quickly. What questions should I be asking?
posted on Mon, 5 Jun 2017
Twitter Thu, 30 Aug 2018 Answered on
Twitter Fri, 31 Aug 2018 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

Based on the history you have shared, the causes vary between 3 groups. one decreased synthesis, second increased breakdown or increased blood loss. With your history and age blood loss specially in gastric tract insensibly, should be ruled out. Stool for occult blood as well as endoscopy may be needed. Also keep good nutritional status.

Reticulocyte count and peripheral film can help for the cause relating to bone marrow. Keep replacement of iron, Vitamin B12 and folic acid.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,     
Dr. Saddiq Ulabidin
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What Causes Sudden Decrease In The RBC Level?

Hi, Based on the history you have shared, the causes vary between 3 groups. one decreased synthesis, second increased breakdown or increased blood loss. With your history and age blood loss specially in gastric tract insensibly, should be ruled out. Stool for occult blood as well as endoscopy may be needed. Also keep good nutritional status. Reticulocyte count and peripheral film can help for the cause relating to bone marrow. Keep replacement of iron, Vitamin B12 and folic acid. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Saddiq Ulabidin