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Anemia is a common problem in family medicine and therefore frequently investigated in general practice. Anemias are classified according to mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and reticulocyte count. An algorithm for the evaluation of the cause contains patients history and laboratory analysis including reticulocyte count, serum ferritin and CRP, serum vitamin B12, serum or erythrocyte folate and serum creatinine. Therewith most anemias in general practice can be explained. The most important types of anemia, e.g. iron deficiency anemia, are discussed as well as aspects of diagnosis and therapy. Iron deficiency anemia is often diagnosed together with other types of anemia, such as e.g. anemia of chronic disease. Particular aspects of anemia in the elderly as well as renal anemia are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 6% of 854 patients in a city general practice anemia was found. Anemia was defined by WHO criteria. An algorithm for the evaluation of the cause includes patient's history and the high patient's age, iron deficiency, chronic disease and malignancy were frequent for anemia, too. 35% of patients had more than one cause of anemia. The results are compared with other sparse reports from general practices and are discussed regarding the particular situation in the elderly. Key words: causes of anemia - general practice - anemia in the elderly - renal anemia - iron deficiency laboratory investigations inclusive of reticulocyte count, serum ferritin with CRP, serum vitamin B12, serum or erythrocyte folate and serum creatinine, depending on clinical situation and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). Median age of the patients was 77 years. The most frequent underlying cause of anemia was chronic renal failure (in 21%). According to the high patient's age, iron deficiency, chronic disease and malignancy were frequent for anemia, too. 35% of patients had more than one cause of anemia. The results are compared with other sparse reports from general practices and are discussed regarding the particular situation in the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]