Anemia Tests & Anemia Treatments at University of Colorado Hospital

Tests for Anemia

Complete Blood Count

Your doctor will usually order a complete blood count (CBC) if he or she thinks you may have anemia. The CBC measures the numbers of red blood cells (oxygen-carrying cells) and the levels of hemoglobin in your body.

Blood Smear

Along with a CBC, you doctor may order a blood smear. The blood smear is used to find small or abnormally shaped red blood cells, an indication of anemia.

Ferritin Test

The ferritin test is ordered to measure the levels of iron in your body. The test can confirm a diagnosis of anemia.

Reticulocyte Count

This blood test measures how quickly new red blood cells (reticulocytes) are produced by bone marrow and sent into the blood. The test can show whether anemia is caused by low red blood cell production or a loss of red blood cells.

Serum Iron Test

A serum iron blood test helps to identify the cause of anemia. For example, the test can reveal if the anemia is caused by a lack of iron in the blood or by a chronic illness such as kidney disease.

Treatments for Anemia

Iron Supplements

Anemia is often caused by a lack of iron. In this case, your doctor will usually prescribe iron pills, which you may take for several months.

Vitamin Injections

Your body may not be able to absorb folic acid or vitamin B12 properly. In this case, you may need regular injections of the vitamins, sometimes for the remainder of your life.

Vitamin Supplements

A lack of folic acid may cause your anemia. In this case, your doctor will usually prescribe oral folic acid supplements.

Blood Transfusions

In rare cases, your bone marrow is unable to produce enough red blood cells (aplastic anemia). This may require blood transfusions to increase the number of cells.