A patient with a small number of spherocytes, increased reticulocytes, and increased MCHC has a normal osmotic fragility. Select the best course of action.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of spherocytes, increased reticulocytes, and increased MCHC suggests a hemolytic anemia, such as hereditary spherocytosis. Normal osmotic fragility does not rule out the condition. Repeating the osmotic fragility test after incubating the blood at 37°C for 24 hours can unmask the condition, as it may show increased fragility of the spherocytes after incubation, which is more indicative of hereditary spherocytosis.

A Patient with a Small Number of Spherocytes, Increased Reticulocytes °\degree°

A Patient with a Small Number of Spherocytes, Increased Reticulocytes $\degree$