A 20-year-old nulliparous woman at 20 weeks' gestation has been on iron supplement therapy throughout her pregnancy to treat anemia. She complained of weakness and becoming easily... A 20-year-old nulliparous woman at 20 weeks' gestation has been on iron supplement therapy throughout her pregnancy to treat anemia. She complained of weakness and becoming easily tired. Test Result Normal Values Hb 78 120-160 g/L MCV 60 80-95 f RBC 5.4 4.2-5.4 x 10^12/L. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis? A. Pregnancy associated hypothyroidism B. Vitamin B12 deficiency C. Iron deficiency anemia D. Beta thalassemia
Understand the Problem
The question is asking us to determine the most likely diagnosis for a 20-year-old pregnant woman based on her blood test results, which indicate anemia. We need to interpret the lab values provided to narrow down the diagnosis from the given options.
Answer
Beta thalassemia
The most likely diagnosis is Beta thalassemia.
Answer for screen readers
The most likely diagnosis is Beta thalassemia.
More Information
Beta thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder resulting in reduced hemoglobin production, often leading to microcytic anemia despite normal or high RBC count. In the given scenario, low MCV (indicative of microcytic anemia) and normal RBC count despite iron supplementation suggest thalassemia over iron deficiency anemia.
Tips
A common mistake is to immediately assume iron deficiency anemia without considering high RBC counts and persistent anemia following supplementation, both suggestive of thalassemia.
Sources
- Iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy: Prevention tips - Mayo Clinic - mayoclinic.org
- Iron Deficiency Anemia Treatment & Management - emedicine.medscape.com
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
