A 20-year-old female undergoes lab testing for anemia. Results show high iron, bilirubin, and transferrin and low hemoglobin and hematocrit. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
A) Pernicious anemia
B) Folate deficiency anemia
C) Iron deficiency anemia
D) Sideroblastic anemia

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The high iron and transferrin levels suggest iron overload, while the low hemoglobin and hematocrit suggest anemia. Sideroblastic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by defective heme synthesis and increased iron absorption, leading to iron overload. Bilirubin may also be elevated due to increased breakdown of red blood cells. Pernicious anemia would typically present with low levels of vitamin B12 and low red blood cell counts, while folate deficiency anemia would present with low levels of folate but normal or low iron levels. Iron deficiency anemia would present with low iron and transferrin levels.

A 20-Year-Old Female Undergoes Lab Testing for Anemia