The Hematologic System ATI Related

Review The Hematologic System ATI related questions and content

A patient who is infected with hookworms produces signs and symptoms of anemia. Which of the following can be seen in the peripheral blood smear of the patient?

  • A. Howell-Jolly bodies
  • B. Basophilic stippling
  • C. Target cells
  • D. Spherocytes
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Basophilic stippling. Basophilic stippling is a common finding in the peripheral blood smear of patients infected with hookworms due to lead poisoning, which can occur as a result of hookworm infection. Basophilic stippling is seen as the presence of small, dark blue granules within red blood cells and is indicative of impaired heme synthesis. Howell-Jolly bodies (A) are remnants of nuclear material in red blood cells and are typically seen in patients with functional asplenia. Target cells (C) are seen in conditions such as liver disease and hemoglobinopathies. Spherocytes (D) are seen in conditions like hereditary spherocytosis or autoimmune hemolytic anemia, but not specifically in hookworm infection.