What is a reticulocyte crisis?
A reticulocyte crisis describes a strong increase of reticulocytes in the blood. This is due to increased blood formation. The crisis can occur after a heavy bleeding, as the body tries to replace the lost blood cells. In addition, it can occur during a substitution therapy with iron, folic acid or vitamin-B12. The increase in reticulocytes speaks for an effective therapy.
The iron deficiency
Iron is an important trace element for humans and is particularly important for blood formation. Iron deficiency is the most common deficiency symptom and can cause different symptoms depending on its severity. A mild deficiency leads to a slight reduction of red blood cells.
A pronounced deficiency results in anemia with the classic symptoms of paleness, tiredness and lack of concentration. The cells can no longer be supplied with sufficient oxygen due to a lack of red blood cells or a lack of haemoglobin (red blood pigment). The symptoms can be well treated by a substitution therapy with iron.
The Malaria
Malaria is an infectious tropical disease caused by parasites. These parasites are so-called plasmodia, which attack human erythrocytes. They lead to a destruction of the erythrocytes and can cause anemia.
In addition, they lead to a reduction of thrombocytes, which play an essential role in blood clotting. The body tries to compensate for the loss of erythrocytes by increasing blood formation activity. Consequently, the number of reticulocytes in the blood also increases.
Malaria is treated with special drugs, such as chloroquine. If the anemia is very pronounced, a blood transfusion may even be necessary.
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