What does the term "anemia" refer to?

The term "anemia" specifically refers to a deficiency in the number or quality of red blood cells. This condition can result in a reduced capacity of the blood to carry oxygen to the body's tissues, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and pallor. Anemia can arise from various causes, including nutritional deficiencies (like iron or vitamin B12), chronic diseases, bone marrow disorders, and blood loss.

Understanding anemia is crucial in medical technology and hematology, as diagnosing and assessing this condition often requires various laboratory tests, such as complete blood counts (CBC), reticulocyte counts, and specific assessments of iron, vitamin B12, and folate levels. This comprehensive approach helps healthcare providers determine the root cause of anemia and develop appropriate treatment plans.

The other options refer to different medical conditions: high blood pressure is termed hypertension, an excess of white blood cells is known as leukocytosis, and a deficiency of platelets is referred to as thrombocytopenia. Each of these conditions has distinct characteristics and implications, separate from the definition of anemia.