A 55-year-old male is undergoing dialysis to treat his renal failure. Routine blood examination shows a low RBC count, low H&H, and a normal MCV. What is the most important factor contributing to this anemia?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The kidneys produce erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow. In renal failure, the kidneys cannot produce adequate amounts of erythropoietin, leading to decreased red blood cell production and subsequent anemia. Ineffective erythropoiesis, hemolysis, and cytotoxic antibodies to erythropoietin-sensitive cells are not the primary factors contributing to this anemia in renal failure.

A 55-Year-Old Male Is Undergoing Dialysis to Treat His Renal