Anemia in its various forms is the most common blood condition in the United States, affecting anywhere between 2 and 10-percent of Americans. Anemia is considered a symptom of disease, rather than a disease in itself.

The body’s ability to sustain the correct number of red blood cells requires cooperation of the bone marrow, kidneys, and nutrients circulating within the blood. If one of these systems is not working properly, the body may develop a form of anemia.

Normocytic anemia is a condition in which the body does not maintain an adequate amount of healthy red blood cells. This reduces the blood’s ability to transfer a sufficient amount of oxygen to the tissues.

There are two forms of Normocytic Anemia. Congenital normocytic anemia, caused by the breaking up of red blood cells, is a condition a person is born with. Acquired normocytic anemia, the more common form, is most often the result of chronic illness or disease. Rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, kidney disease, and autoimmune diseases are some of the diseases that may lead to normocytic anemia.

Normally normocytic anemia will progress slowly. Initially the person may have no symptoms. Eventually the person may become pale, overly tired. As the condition progresses, the person may experience any array of symptoms, including shortness of breath, low blood pressure, a fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, dizziness, and/or general weakness.

Normocyctic anemia is diagnosed through a complete medical history, a physical exam, and a routine blood test called a CBC (Complete Blood Count). Among other things, this blood test measures the levels of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the blood. A portion of the blood will likely be examined under a microscope. This will reveal the number of blood cells, as well as the size, shape, and color. Normocytic anemia is the diagnosis given when the patient is found to have a low number of normal-sized red blood cells.

Once diagnosed, the doctor may wish to order further testing to determine the cause of the anemia. Treatment of normocytic anemia preferably targets the root cause. Occasionally, in severe cases, the doctor may recommend a transfusion of red blood cells or shots of erythropoietin. Erythropoietin is a hormone normally produced by the kidneys. Manufactured under various brand names, this medication induces the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells.

A person diagnosed with anemia will need to have follow-up visits with his or her doctor in order to determine the response to treatment. Repeat blood tests will be ordered to monitor the number of red blood cells.

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