Several infections can cause anemia. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), infections strongly associated with anemia include parasitic, bacterial, and viral infections.
Infections Linked to Anemia
Here's a breakdown of the types of infections that can lead to anemia:
- Parasitic Infections:
- Malaria: Malaria parasites infect red blood cells, leading to their destruction and anemia.
- Hookworm: Hookworms attach to the intestinal wall and feed on blood, causing iron deficiency anemia.
- Schistosomiasis: Schistosomiasis can cause blood loss and inflammation, contributing to anemia.
- Bacterial Infections:
- Tuberculosis (TB): TB can cause chronic inflammation, affecting red blood cell production.
- Non-typhoidal Salmonellae: These bacteria can cause intestinal bleeding and inflammation, leading to anemia.
- Viral Infections:
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): HIV can directly affect the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced, and can also lead to anemia through opportunistic infections and treatments.
| Infection Type | Specific Infection | Mechanism of Anemia |
|---|---|---|
| Parasitic | Malaria | Destruction of red blood cells by parasites |
| Parasitic | Hookworm | Blood loss due to intestinal feeding |
| Parasitic | Schistosomiasis | Blood loss and inflammation |
| Bacterial | Tuberculosis (TB) | Chronic inflammation affecting red blood cell production |
| Bacterial | Non-typhoidal Salmonellae | Intestinal bleeding and inflammation |
| Viral | HIV | Direct impact on bone marrow, opportunistic infections, treatments |
It's important to note that this list isn't exhaustive, but it covers some of the most common and significant infections associated with anemia (WHO 2017a, 2017b, 2018a, 2018b, 2019a, 2019b, 2019c, 2020a, 2020b).
