Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a type of anemia caused by a lack of iron in the body. It is the most common type of anemia worldwide. IDA is caused by a decrease in the production of red blood cells (RBCs) due to a lack of iron. It is characterized by low hemoglobin levels, which can lead to fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and other symptoms.
Is Iron Deficiency Anemia Hemolytic?
Iron deficiency anemia is not a hemolytic anemia, which is a type of anemia caused by the destruction of red blood cells. Hemolytic anemias are usually caused by an autoimmune disorder or by a number of inherited conditions. In contrast, iron deficiency anemia is caused by a decrease in the production of red blood cells due to a lack of iron. Hemolytic anemias are often characterized by an increase in RBC destruction, while iron deficiency anemia is characterized by a decrease in RBC production.
