Author Question: Describe the morphologic appearance of the red cells given the following results. RBC: 1.89 ... (Read 123 times)

sam.t96 · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

Describe the morphologic appearance of the red cells given the following results.

RBC: 1.89 1012/L
Hemoglobin: 7.5 g/dL
Hematocrit: 21.0
RDW: 18.5

a. Macrocytic with anisocytosis
b. Normocytic normochromic with anisocytosis
c. Microcytic hypochromic with little anisocytosis
d. Macrocytic with most cells the same size

Question 2

Which of the following disorders would be consistent with the previously mentioned parameters?

a. Anemia of chronic disease
b. Aplastic anemia
c. Vitamin B12 deficiency
d. Thalassemia

mariahkathleeen · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
The red cell indices are calculated as follows: MCV = (7.5/1.89) 10 = 111 fL; mean cell hemoglobin (MCH) = (7.5/1.89) 10 = 40 pg; mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) = (7.5/21) 100 = 36. The red cells are thus macrocytic (high MCV) and normochromic (normal MCHC). The RDW is elevated at 18.5, so an increased variation in size exists. This then is a macrocytic anemia with anisocytosis.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Vitamin B12 deficiency leads to a macrocytic anemia with significant variation in size (therefore an increased RDW). Aplastic anemia is normocytic normochromic with a normal RDW; the anemia of chronic inflammation (disease) is either normocytic (MCV low normal) or slightly microcytic but normochromic and a normal or only a mildly elevated RDW. Thalassemia is a microcytic normochromic or hypochromic anemia with a normal RDW.