Red Cell Mass and Plasma Volume Measurements in Elderly Men and Women With Anemia

Red Cell Mass and Plasma Volume Measurements in Elderly Men and Women With Anemia

On the basis that the clinical consequences of seemingly trivial levels of anemia are surprisingly severe, this study investigates if hemoglobin concentration accurately represents the underlying red cell mass in elderly patients with unresolved anemia.

For the study, the routine clinical measurement of hemoglobin will be compared to true red cell mass and plasma volume in elderly patients with anemia.

INCLUSION CRITERIA:

• 65 and older
• Anemia (hemoglobin < 13 g/dL in men or < 12 g/dL in women)
• Outpatient at either the Stanford Health Care (SHC) Medical Center or VA Palo Alto Health Care System

EXCLUSION CRITERIA:

• Body mass index (BMI):

  • < 18.5 kg/m2
  • > 35 kg/m2

• Palpable splenomegaly

• Contraindication to RBC mass/plasma volume testing

• On any experimental pharmacologic agent in the prior 2 months