A pregnant patient at 24 weeks gestation complains of shortness of breath on exertion, fatigue, weakness, and constant cravings for ice chips. On physical examination, vital signs are: temperature 98.6°F, pulse 100 beats/min, respirations 18 breaths/min, blood pressure 120/70. On physical examination, the heart has a regular rate and rhythm at 100 beats/min, no S₃, no murmurs. Lungs are clear to auscultation. Abdominal examination is negative. Uterus fundus is above the umbilicus. Ankles: no edema. Dorsalis pedis pulses +2/4 bilaterally. Urine dipstick is negative for protein. Laboratory tests reveal complete blood count: hemoglobin 10 microcytic hypochromic red blood cells. Which of the following conditions should be suspected?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms of shortness of breath on exertion, fatigue, weakness, and pica (craving for non-nutritive substances like ice chips), along with laboratory findings of microcytic hypochromic red blood cells and a hemoglobin level of 10, are indicative of iron-deficiency anemia. This is a common condition during pregnancy due to increased iron requirements for the growing fetus and placenta, as well as for the expansion of the maternal red blood cell mass.

A Pregnant Patient at 24 Weeks Gestation Complains of Shortness