A patient's laboratory results indicate a decreased level of ferritin.This finding is most consistent with which of the following conditions?
A)Alcoholism
B)Hemolytic anemia
C)Iron-deficiency anemia
D)Hemosiderosis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron, and its decreased levels indicate iron deficiency. The most common cause of iron deficiency is iron-deficiency anemia, hence choice C is the correct answer. Alcoholism can lead to macrocytic anemia due to a lack of folate and vitamin B12, and hemolytic anemia results from the destruction of red blood cells. Hemosiderosis is an iron-overload disorder and not associated with low ferritin levels.

A Patient's Laboratory Results Indicate a Decreased Level of Ferritin