Anemia and Neutropenia
Anemia (microcytic, normocytic, or macrocytic) and neutropenia are the hallmark hematological symptoms of copper deficiency. Low blood platelet counts, or thrombocytopenia, are unusual.
Copper deficiency can mimic the myelodysplastic disease in bone marrow aspirate and peripheral blood results. In both situations, ring sideroblasts and dysplasia of blood cell precursors may be visible in the bone marrow aspirate. However, contrary to most myelodysplastic syndrome cases, copper deficiency is characterized by cytoplasmic vacuoles within red and white cell precursors in the bone marrow aspirate. In addition, Karyotyping in copper deficiency cases does not reveal cytogenetic features typical of myelodysplastic syndrome.
After copper replacement, anemia and neutropenia usually go away in six weeks. Iron and copper combine to create red blood cells and hemoglobin. Studies show that copper aids in the digestive tract’s ability to absorb iron. Iron is primarily stored in the liver, which aids in its release.
Red blood cells are made using iron from meals and supplements. Anemia can develop when iron levels drop too low due to a copper shortage. It results in anemia symptoms like fatigue, aches, muscle pains, digestive issues, and cognitive impairment.
