Blood Disorder Case Study
- Country :
Australia
Part 1
Question 1:
The hemoglobin concentration in blood is a determinant factor for oxygen delivery in the human body. In Mrs. Simpsons report, we can see that the hemoglobin and hematocrit level in her blood are significantly low, this states that the oxygen-carrying capacity in her body is also low. She might be suffering from anemia.
Question 2:
The measures outside the limit and their effects on physiology are below:
| Measures | Effects on physiology |
|---|---|
| Haemoglobin | Low hemoglobin levels also known as anemia, reduce the ability of blood to carry oxygen. This leads to fatigue, weakness, paleness, shortness of breath, decreased exercise tolerance, affecting overall energy levels and impairing body functions. |
| Hematocrit | This may have an adverse effect on general health and quality of life by causing fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and reduced physical and cognitive performance. |
| aPTT | A low aPTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time) value suggests insufficient blood clotting factors, which increases bleeding risk. This might potentially cause spontaneous bleeding, bruising and protracted bleeding following traumas or procedures. |
| Sodium | Hyponatremia or low blood salt levels may disrupt cellular processes and result in symptoms including disorientation, cramping, and seizures. Due to abnormalities in fluid control and nerve communication, severe instances can potentially be fatal. They can induce brain enlargement, coma, and even death. |
| Potassium | Hypokalemia or low potassium levels in the blood may hamper nerve and muscle function and cause fatigue, cramps, unsteady heartbeats and potentially cause fatal consequences including paralysis and cardiac arrhythmias. |
| Iron | low blood iron also known as iron deficiency anemia causes red blood cells' ability to carry oxygen to decrease, which causes fatigue, weakness, pallor, and a decreased ability to tolerate physical activity. As a result of insufficient oxygen transport to tissues, it compromises general body performance. |
Question 3:
The symptoms that she has been through may not be directly related to the level of platelets in her body. The platelet level in her body only suggests that the ability to form blood clots and excessive blood loss is in a safe range. So based on only the platelets level no such details can be told.
Question 4:
Mrs. Simpson probably lost electrolytes from frequent diarrhea with frank blood, which is the most likely reason for her low sodium, potassium, and chloride values. The body's equilibrium is disrupted by diarrhea due to the large fluid and electrolyte loss that occurs. Weakness, muscular cramps, abnormal heart rhythms, and in severe cases life-threatening consequences can happen due to low sodium, potassium, and chloride.
Question 5:
Iron deficiency anemia or low iron level has an severe impact on Mrs. Simpson's health. This is indicated by her low iron, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels. The formation of hemoglobin, which is necessary for red blood cells to deliver oxygen, depends on iron. Fatigue, pale complexion, shortness of breath, fainting, weakness, chilly hands and feet, an elevated heart rate and cognitive impairment are all symptoms of low iron levels.
Question 6:
To improve Mrs. Simpson's quality of life continuous treatments are needed. Iron supplementation, nutritional advice, routine hemoglobin level monitoring, symptom management, electrolyte and hydration balance, gastrointestinal examination, and cardiovascular health assessment are needed. Her iron shortage has to be treated and taking iron supplements will help her hemoglobin levels. Lean meats, leafy greens and items with added iron should all be encouraged in a diet. Techniques for daily activity adaptation and energy saving should be part of her treatment. Any underlying issues should be found and treated via a gastrointestinal assessment. Blood pressure and heart rate should be measured during circulation monitoring. Mrs. Simpson should get educational support to better comprehend her disease, medication compliance and dietary adjustments. Her progress should be monitored via routine follow-up sessions and based on that her therapy may be altered as necessary.
Part 2:
The study of anemia has advanced significantly in recent years, with new therapies and treatments entering pre-clinical and clinical trial stages. One such potential therapy is discusseds below
1. Origin of the Therapeutic
A deeper understanding of the molecular pathways and regulatory mechanisms that control erythropoiesis (Caulier et al., 2022), the process by which red blood cells are formed, was the first step in the creation of a novel anemia therapy. In the past, finding successful anemia therapies mostly revolved around correcting certain deficiencies, including those in iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid. These therapies, however, were ineffective when anemia was caused by more complicated etiologies, such persistent inflammation or bone marrow issues.
The discovery of the function of the hormone erythropoietin (EPO) (Tsiftsoglou & A.S., 2021), which is mostly generated by the kidneys, was a crucial turning point in the study of anemia. In reaction to low blood oxygen levels, EPO causes the bone marrow to manufacture red blood cells. Researchers found that EPO levels were frequently lower in anemic individuals than anticipated, pointing to a dysregulation of the EPO response. Recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) ( Ye et al., 2021) , a ground-breaking treatment for anemia, was created as a result of this discovery, particularly for chemotherapy-undergoing cancer and chronic kidney disease patients.
EPO mimics or EPO receptor agonists have become more prevalent in recent years as a result of study into the molecular processes behind the control of erythropoiesis and EPO signaling. One such EPO mimic now under development, Roxadustat, is firmly based in the investigation of EPO signaling pathways and their potential for therapeutic intervention, placing it at the forefront of anemia research.
2. Mechanism of Action
A tiny chemical that is taken orally called roxadustat (Kurata et al. 2022) has a novel method of action for treating anemia. It stimulates the erythropoiesis pathway, a critical regulator of erythropoiesis, which is necessary for the synthesis of red blood cells. HIF-alpha subunits are hydroxylated when there is normal oxygen present, which causes fast breakdown. Low oxygen levels, as in anemia, however, impede the hydroxylation process, allowing HIF-alpha subunits to build up and go to the nucleus. The active HIF complex is created in the nucleus by dimerizing HIF-alpha and HIF-beta subunits. This complex binds to hypoxia response elements (HREs) in the DNA and starts the transcription of genes involved in erythropoiesis, including transferrin and EPO.Under normoxic circumstances, roxadustat prevents the hydroxylation and degradation of HIF-alpha subunits by acting as a pharmacological HIF-prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor. Even when there is sufficient oxygen present, this stabilizes and activates HIF. The benefits of roxadustat (Grzeszczak et al., 2021) include its portability, accurate erythropoiesis control, and efficiency in treating a range of anemic etiologies, such as chronic kidney disease, inflammation, and myelodysplastic syndromes.
3.Advantages over other Treatment
The innovative anemia medication roxadustat has a number of benefits over more conventional approaches. Its oral administration makes the therapeutic procedure more straightforward, perhaps enhancing patient compliance and quality of life. The HIF pathway activation at the core of Roxadustat's mechanism (Long et al., 2020) of action allows for precise and regulated erythropoiesis stimulation, lowering the danger of negative side effects brought on by excessive red blood cell formation. Due to its broad application, it may be used to treat a variety of anemia etiologies, such as anemia brought on by chronic renal disease, inflammatory anemia, and anemia caused by myelodysplastic syndromes. It is a potential alternative for a wider patient group because of its adaptability. Additionally, the regulated erythropoiesis regulation and oral delivery of roxadustat may lessen the need for frequent checkups and monitoring, which would ease some of the stress on healthcare systems.The safety profile of roxadustat is similarly encouraging, showing a high degree of safety and effectiveness.
Are you struggling to keep up with the demands of your academic journey? Don't worry, we've got your back! Exam Question Bank is your trusted partner in achieving academic excellence for all kind of technical and non-technical subjects.
Our comprehensive range of academic services is designed to cater to students at every level. Whether you're a high school student, a college undergraduate, or pursuing advanced studies, we have the expertise and resources to support you.
To connect with expert and ask your query click here Exam Question Bank
