Summary
Anæmia associated with pregnancy is a major problem in Dublin. It occurs in one of four women attending the Rotunda Ante-natal Clinic. The incidence of anæmia is lower during the late summer and autumn months. The commonest symptoms are dyspnœa, tiredness, loss of appetite and epistaxis, in that order, but one-third of the cases have no symptoms at all. In almost half of the cases there are no clinical signs of anæmia. Hæmoglobinometry is essential to diagnosis.
The incidence of megaloblastic anæmia of pregnancy is much higher than has been previously realised. Bone marrow biopsy is essential to diagnosis. The most important symptoms are dyspnœa, weakness, diarrhœa and vomiting. Pyrexia, albuminuria and oedema are common clinical features which may confuse the diagnosis.
One case of Addisonian pernicious anæmia who became pregnant is described.
The rarity of hæmolytic anæmia associated with pregnancy is emphasised, only 2 cases having been discovered in the course of 1 year.
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Additional information
Abstract of communications presented to Section of Obstetrics, 29th January, 1954.
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Lillie, E.W., Gatenby, P.B.B. & Moore, H.C. A survey of anæmia in 4,314 cases of pregnancy. Ir J Med Sci 29, 304–310 (1954). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02952961
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02952961