Final answer:
Iatrogenic anemia is a condition caused by medical procedures leading to blood loss and has symptoms like weakness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Severe cases may involve chest pain, heart attack, and serious complications like disseminated intravascular coagulation, leading to organ failure or death.
Step-by-step explanation:
Symptoms/Complications of Iatrogenic Anemia
Iatrogenic anemia is a type of anemia caused by medical treatment or diagnostic procedures. It often arises from repeated blood draws for laboratory testing which can lead to a significant loss of red blood cells. The symptoms of iatrogenic anemia mirror those of other types of anemia, including weakness, fatigue, poor concentration, and shortness of breath during activity. More severe complications can include chest pain, angina, heart attack, and fainting. Iron deficiency is a common consequence, as the body lacks sufficient iron to produce the hemoglobin necessary for oxygen transport.
Additional symptoms of anemia can include a high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and a petechial rash. In cases where anemia is accompanied by disseminated intravascular coagulation, there may be severe complications such as hypotension and ischemia, potentially leading to organ failure or death. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential in managing the symptoms and preventing these serious complications.