Anemia

Paul K. Schick, MD

Professor of Medicine, Emeritus, Thomas Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia
Research Professor, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia
Adjunct Clinical Professor, Lankenau Hospital (LIMR), Wynnewood, PA

This case was reviewed and updated in 2009 by Dr. Peter Marks and members of the Teaching Cases Subcommittee.

Copyright of the American Society of Hematology, 2006. ISSN: 1931-6860.

I. HISTORY

A 45-year-old white female is seeking medical attention for fatigue that developed during the last month. She reports no chest pain. However, she does feel mildly short of breath with exertion such as walking up a flight of stairs. She notes no bright red blood per rectum or melena, but she has had heavy menstrual periods for about a year.

Past medical history: She was treated for anemia following her third pregnancy 10 years ago. She has not been taking any prescribed medications.

Family history: Her parents were born in Italy and died when she was in grade school. She does not know their medical history.

Have a question or comment about the ASH Teaching Cases? Please e-mail webmaster@hematology.org.