Clinical Profile of Patients with Anemia in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Anemia is a common health problem with nonspecific symptoms often overlooked leading to adverse health outcomes. This study aims to assess the clinical profile, types, and etiologies of anemia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS In this hospital based cross-sectional study, patients with anemia were enrolled through convenience sampling. Relevant history, physical examination, and investigations were performed. Statistical package for social sciences software version 20 was used to enter and analyze the data. Categorical variables were expressed as frequencies and percentages. Continuous variables were expressed as median (range). The associations were analyzed by using Fisher's exact test or Chi-square test, as appropriate.

RESULTS Out of 193 patients, 151 (78.2%) were females.  The median age was 49 years (range 18-87 years). Most frequent symptoms were easy fatiguability (76.2%), breathlessness on exertion (30.1%), and light headedness (21.8%). Most frequent signs were pallor (75.6%), tachycardia (23.8%), glossitis (16.1%), and nail changes (15.5%). Majority (79.3%) had moderate and 17.1% had severe anemia. Iron deficiency (59.1%) and anemia of inflammation (28%) were common etiologies. Iron deficiency anemia was most commonly due to nutritional deficiency. Age was significantly associated with the type and etiology of anemia.

CONCLUSION Moderate anemia was the most common presentation. Easy fatiguability, breathlessness on exertion, and light headedness were most common symptoms, while pallor, tachycardia, glossitis, and nail changes were the most common signs. Iron deficiency anemia and anemia of inflammation were most common etiologies. Iron deficiency anemia was more common in younger patients, while anemia of inflammation was more common in older patients.