Sirdah et al reported an equation for distinguishing beta-thalassemia minor from iron deficiency anemia in population of Palestinians with microcytic anemia. The authors are from Al Azhar University in Gaza.
Patient selection: microcytic anemia
Parameters:
(1) MCV in femtoliters
(2) RBC count in 10^12 per liter
(3) hemoglobin in g/dL
value =
= (MCV) - (RBC) - (3 * (hemoglobin))
Interpretation:
• A score > 27 is associated with iron deficiency anemia.
• A score < 27 is associated with beta-thalassemia minor.
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