Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026
Neutrophil Lifespan Extension with CLON-G and an In Vitro Spontaneous Death Assay
Published on: May 12, 2023
Infection and anemia
1Division of Hematology/Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Olson Pavilion, 303 East Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60611, USA. h-kwaan@northwestern.edu
Anemia most frequently accompanies infection in varying degrees and in different forms. Anemia of inflammation is the most common and is due to over-expression of hepcidin. This is followed by hemolytic anemia, red cell aplasia and blood loss. The degree of anemia may not necessarily be proportional to the severity of the infection, nor is it specific for the type of infection. A clear understanding of these diverse causes and a recognition that they often occur in combination can be of enormous assistance in forming a proper diagnosis and an appropriate management plan.
Anemia most frequently accompanies infection in varying degrees and in different forms. Anemia of inflammation is the most common and is due to over-expression of hepcidin. This is followed by hemolytic anemia, red cell aplasia and blood loss. The degree of anemia may not necessarily be proportional to the severity of the infection, nor is it specific for the type of infection. A clear understanding of these diverse causes and a recognition that they often occur in combination can be of enormous assistance in forming a proper diagnosis and an appropriate management plan.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin create...
01:27Disorders of Erythrocytes
Erythrocyte disorders can be broadly categorized into two main types: anemic and polycythemic conditions.
A low oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood due to the loss, lower production, or destruction of erythrocytes is termed anemia. Hemorrhagic anemia, for example, occurs when bleeding from an external wound or internal ulcer reduces erythrocyte counts.
On the other...
01:25Immunodeficiency Diseases
There are three main causes of immunodeficiency disorders...
01:27Disorders of Leukocytes
Leukopenia may result from bone marrow disorders, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases. For example, conditions such as multiple myeloma and aplastic anemia can impair the bone marrow's ability to produce adequate leukocytes. Similarly, autoimmune diseases like lupus and viral infections such as HIV can prompt the immune system...
01:20Infection
The chain begins with pathogens: bacteria, viruses, fungi, prions, or parasites such as protozoa helminths. These can be present on the skin as transient or resident flora, or they can be acquired from the environment. Identifying and treating the type of infection and...
01:25Peritoneal Dialysis II: Peritoneal Dialysis Systems and Complications