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Updated: May 18, 2026

A Point-of-Care Method with Integrated Decision Support Tool to Estimate Anemia at Population Level
Published on: January 19, 2024
[Anemia in the elderly]
A Himmelmann1, O Rychter, J S Goede
1OHZ Onko-Hämatologisches Zentrum Zug. andreas.himmelmann@datazug.ch
Abstract:
Anemia is common in the elderly and its impact on various important health outcomes has recently been clearly demonstrated. Although a causal relationship has not yet been demonstrated, adequate diagnosis and treatment are important. Because of ongoing changes in demographics an increasing number of anemic elderly patients is to be expected. Despite this, many issues regarding the aetiology and the management of anemia in older persons remain unresolved. The present review will focus on aspects specific to the causes of anemia in the elderly and suggests an algorithm for the management of this very common condition. Clearly evidence based guidelines on anemia in this highest age group need to be developed. Treatment options for patients with myelodysplastic syndromes are also discussed.
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Disorders 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...
