Published: 18 Jun 2025
ICD9: 285.9 ICD10: D64.9 ICD11: 3A9Z
"Anemia (any)" is a very broad term that refers to any condition characterized by a deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood.
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. A lower than normal amount of red blood cells or hemoglobin means that your blood isn't carrying enough oxygen to the rest of your body.
Because it's such a general term, "Anemia (any)" doesn't tell you the underlying cause or severity. It simply indicates that a person has some form of anemia.
Key components of understanding "Anemia (any)": Deficiency: Indicates a lower-than-normal level of red blood cells and/or hemoglobin.
Oxygen Transport: Reduced oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood.
General Term: Doesn't specify the type or cause of anemia.
To understand a person's condition, you need more specific information, such as: Specific Type of Anemia: (e.g., iron-deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, aplastic anemia, hemolytic anemia)
Cause of the Anemia: (e.g., nutritional deficiency, chronic disease, genetic disorder, blood loss)
Severity of the Anemia: (e.g., mild, moderate, severe, as indicated by hemoglobin levels and other blood tests)
In short, "Anemia (any)" is a starting point, not a diagnosis. It signals the presence of a problem that needs further investigation. A doctor is needed to determine the cause and provide the correct treatment.