Blood Disorders

Types

Blood disorders are categorized according to which area of the blood they affect:

White Blood Cells

White blood cells help the body fight off infections. Disorders affecting white blood cells include:

• Leukaemia – This blood cancer results in an overproduction of white blood cells in the bone marrow.

• Lymphoma – Another blood cancer, lymphoma affects the lymphatic system, which is integral to the function of the immune system.

• Multiple Myeloma – This blood cancer causes specific cells to release a toxic substance, which then damages organs.

Red Blood Cells

Red blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body. Red blood cell disorders include:

• Anaemia – Anaemia occurs when a person has a lower-than-normal level of red blood cells. It can sometimes result from nutritional deficiencies, such as lack of dietary iron.

• Sickle Cell Anaemia – Sickle cell anaemia causes issues with red blood cells. As they become more rigid and sticky, they can impede blood flow.

• Malaria – Transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito, malaria infections impact red blood cells and cause them to rupture.

Platelets

Platelets are integral for proper blood clotting. These disorders include:

• Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura – Low platelet levels can sometimes have no verifiable cause and can result in abnormal bleeding and bruising.

• Thrombocytopenia – Also results in low platelet levels, but with verifiable causes. In most cases, abnormal bleeding will not occur.

• Primary Thrombocythemia – This condition causes too many platelets to be produced without any underlying cause. Blood clotting and bleeding may become excessive as a result.

Plasma

Plasma makes up the liquid content of the blood. Plasma disorders can include:

• Deep Venous Thrombosis – Blood clots can form in deep veins within the legs and may travel to other areas of the body. When affecting the heart or lungs, life-threatening medical effects can occur.

• Haemophilia – A genetic condition, haemophilia can lead to serious bleeding issues in some cases due to a deficit of a certain protein.

• Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation – This disorder can cause smaller blood clots to form throughout the body. It can also lead to bleeding issues. Causes include serious infections and surgeries.