Overview
Institutional anemia panels vary, this algorithm is educational framing.
Classification
| Branch | First reflex tests (typical) | Smear triggers |
|---|---|---|
| Microcytic + low retic | Iron studies, CRP if ACI suspected | Pencil cells, target cells |
| Macrocytic + low retic | B₁₂, folate (± MMA) | Macro-ovalocytes, hypersegmentation |
| Normocytic + low retic | Iron/B₁₂/folate, renal function, marrow if pancytopenia | Nonspecific |
| Any + high retic | LDH, bilirubin, haptoglobin, DAT if immune suspected | Spherocytes, schistocytes |
Morphologic Features
Laboratory Characteristics
- Verify reflex criteria against local SOP
Reference Intervals
Clinical and Laboratory Significance
Algorithm narrows differentials, does not replace clinical diagnosis.
Differential Considerations
Comparison Tables
Classification Frameworks
Laboratory Notes
- Module 7 owns introductory framework, this entry adds disease-depth branches.
References
Authoritative textbooks, guidelines, and reviews supporting this reference entry. Verify reference intervals, critical limits, and reflex criteria against institutional protocols and current guideline editions.
Textbooks
- McPherson RA, Pincus MR. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 24th ed. Elsevier; 2021.
- Rodak BF, Carr JH. Rodak's Hematology: Clinical Principles and Applications. 6th ed. Elsevier; 2020.
- McKenzie SB, Williams JL. Clinical Laboratory Hematology. 4th ed. Pearson; 2022.
- Hoffbrand AV, Moss PAH, Pettit JE. Essential Haematology. 8th ed. Wiley-Blackwell; 2019.
- Bain BJ. Blood Cells: A Practical Guide. 5th ed. Wiley-Blackwell; 2015.
CLSI and Professional Guidelines
- Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Defining, Establishing, and Verifying Reference Intervals in the Clinical Laboratory; Approved Standard. CLSI document EP28-A3c. CLSI; 2010.
- Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Reference and Selected Performance Standards for the Automated Complete Blood Cell Count (CBC). CLSI document H26-A2. CLSI; 2010.
WHO Publications
- World Health Organization. Haemoglobin concentrations for the diagnosis of anaemia and assessment of severity. WHO/NMH/NHD/MNM/11.1. Geneva: WHO; 2011.
Frequently Asked Questions
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