The Hematologic System ATI Related

Review The Hematologic System ATI related questions and content

A 50-year-old male who had frequent infections of his upper respiratory tract manifested with subcutaneous petechiae over his arms and legs. Investigations revealed low hemoglobin and a dry tap marrow. The most likely condition the patient is suffering from

  • A. Iron deficiency anemia
  • B. Megaloblastic anemia
  • C. Hemolytic anemia
  • D. Aplastic anemia
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Aplastic anemia. This condition is characterized by pancytopenia, which includes low hemoglobin (anemia), low platelets (manifested as petechiae), and low white blood cells (frequent infections). Dry tap marrow is a classic finding in aplastic anemia due to bone marrow failure. Iron deficiency anemia (choice A) typically presents with microcytic hypochromic anemia without pancytopenia. Megaloblastic anemia (choice B) is characterized by macrocytic anemia with hypersegmented neutrophils and is usually caused by deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate. Hemolytic anemia (choice C) presents with anemia due to increased destruction of red blood cells, which does not explain the low platelets and white blood cells seen in this patient.