Final answer:
Normocytic anemias are differentiated in labs by looking at causes and using kinetic and morphological approaches to assess RBC production, destruction, size, and appearance, with MCV and reticulocyte counts being key tests.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lab Differentiating Normocytic Anemias:
Lab differentiation of normocytic anemias involves categorizing anemias based on their causes: blood loss, faulty RBC production, or excessive destruction of RBCs. This can be done using two main diagnostic approaches. The kinetic approach assesses the production, destruction, and removal of RBCs. In contrast, the morphological approach looks at the size and appearance of RBCs.
Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is crucial in this evaluation, categorizing red blood cells as normocytic, microcytic, or macrocytic. The reticulocyte count assesses RBC production and may indicate inadequate RBC production. Normocytic anemias affect tissue oxygenation, leading to symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and increased infection risk due to the lowered oxygen delivery to tissues.