Alternate Names : Anemia of inflammation
Definition
Anemia of chronic disease is a blood disorder that results from a long-term (chronic) medical condition that affects the production and lifespan of red blood cells.
See also: Anemia
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Anemia is a condition in which there is a lower than normal number of red blood cells in the blood. Certain chronic infections, inflammatory diseases, and other illnesses can affect the body’s ability to produce red blood cells.
Conditions that can lead to anemia of chronic disease include:
* AIDS
* Cancer
* Chronic bacterial endocarditis
* Chronic kidney disease
* Crohn’s disease
* Hepatitis
* Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
* Osteomyelitis
* Rheumatic fever
* Rheumatoid arthritis
* Ulcerative colitis
Pictures & Images
Blood cells
Blood is comprised of red blood cells, platelets, and various white blood cells.
Anemia of chronic disease: Overview, Causes
Anemia of chronic disease: Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
Anemia of chronic disease: Treatment
Reviewed By : Todd Gersten, M.D., Hematology/Oncology, Palm Beach Cancer Institute, West Palm Beach, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
