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anemia

Low Red Blood Cells

Plain-language definition

A condition with too few red blood cells or hemoglobin. Severe anemia can cause retinal hemorrhages, cotton-wool spots, and optic disc swelling.

Where this term comes up

Category
Condition, finding, or disease process
Also written as
No alternate forms listed.

Pathology terms describe diseases, tissue changes, exam findings, or complications that can affect vision or eye comfort.

Related glossary terms

  • MRI

    Magnetic Resonance Imaging

  • CRP

    C-Reactive Protein

  • ESR

    Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate

  • GCA

    Giant Cell Arteritis

  • ischemia

    Reduced Blood Supply

  • vasculitis

    Blood Vessel Inflammation

A note on medical context

A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.