Microcytic hypochromic anaemia: Iron deficiency anaemia, thalassaemia, sideroblastic
anaemia, anaemia of chronic diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), sometimes in lead
poisoning.
Macrocytic anaemia:
– Megaloblastic: Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.
– Normoblastic: Pregnancy, alcoholism, chronic liver disease, myxoedema,
haemolysis or acute blood loss, aplastic anaemia.
*Microcyte: <70 cubic micron, macrocyte: >100 cubic micron, normal RBC (MCV): 87±7 cubic micron;
normal lifespan of RBC is 120 days.