Abstract
Introduction: Anemia is an important risk factor in the development of several complications and morbidities especially in the elderly. It is associated with higher rates of hospital admissions worse survival outcomes. Anemia in the elderly is divided into 4 main types according to cause: nutrient deficiencies anemia, chronic disease (chronic inflammation), chronic kidney disease, and unexplained anemia. The risk of anemia increases after an individual passes fifty years of age, with a prevalence of more than twenty percent in individuals older than eighty-five years, therefore, it is important to establish the best ways to approach anemic seniors and determine best work-up methods.
Aim of work: In this review, we will classify the common types of anemia in the elderly population and discuss the most recent approaches for management of anemia in the elderly.
Methodology: We conducted this review using a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE, January 1985, through February 2017. The following search terms were used: Anemia, elderly, management, anemia of chronic diseases, unexplained anemia, elderly anemia evaluation, recent advances
Conclusions: The main challenge in the management of anemia is the proper assessment and evaluation of the condition as this will determine later treatments and management plans, thus knowing the cause is essential to determine. Most common causes of anemia in the elderly population include the presence of a chronic disease, the presence of a nutritional deficiency (most likely iron), or chronic kidney disease. Chronic blood loss is also an important cause that will eventually lead to the development of an iron deficiency anemia. Chronic blood loss could be an indicator of serious illnesses like colorectal cancer, therefore, it should be taken seriously. Treatment of anemia usually aims at achieving two outcomes: target the underlying cause and treat it (if possible) and improve blood quality. If underlying cause cannot be treated, or acute blood loss is present, blood transfusion can be indicated to give a rapid recovery of blood stores. Later, the use of recombinant erythropoietin will improve the general condition.